With energy costs soaring and sustainability becoming a key focus, there has never been a better time for farmers to invest in solar power. Thanks to new solar funding for farming, eligible businesses in England can access grants to install solar PV systems and improve farm productivity. Read on to discover how these grants work and how Harvest Green Developments can help you secure funding and maximise your investment. You have until 11.59pm on 31 July 2025 to submit your full application.
What is the Solar Funding for Farming Grant?
The Rural Payments Agency (RPA) is offering grants to support farmers and horticultural businesses in installing solar PV systems. This funding aims to:
- Improve farm productivity
- Reduce environmental impact
- Introduce innovative technology
- Increase efficiency and reduce reliance on the grid
By exploring solar funding for farming, it can lower operational costs, improve sustainability, and future-proof businesses against rising energy prices.
Who Can Apply for Solar Funding?
The grant is available to farmers and horticulturalists in England. Contractors who provide agricultural services can also apply for farm productivity grants but are not eligible for solar PV funding. Both landowning and tenant farmers can apply, provided they have the necessary permissions.
How Much Funding is Available?
- Solar PV Grant: Minimum grant of £15,000 (25% of a £60,000 project) and maximum grant of £100,000 per business.
- Farm Productivity Grants: If applying for additional farm equipment such as robotic technology or LED lighting, separate applications must be made. The maximum total grant per business across all applications is £500,000.
Farmers must cover the remaining project costs using loans, overdrafts, or eligible funding sources such as the Basic Payment Scheme or Countryside Stewardship scheme. However, other public funding cannot be used.
What Can the Grant Pay For?
The solar funding for farming grant covers essential solar PV equipment and installation, including:
- Inverters
- Utility meters
- Electrical grid connections
- Power diverters
To be eligible, solar PV panels must be installed on farm building rooftops or irrigation reservoirs. With this particular solar funding for farming, ground-mounted solar arrays are not eligible however we will keep you updated as new funding arises.
How to Apply for Solar Funding
The solar funding for farming grant application process consists of two stages:
Stage 1: Online Eligibility Checker
- The RPA assesses eligibility and scores projects based on funding priorities.
- Only the highest-scoring applications will proceed to the next stage.
Stage 2: Full Application Submission
- If shortlisted, you will receive a project number and full application form.
- The RPA will review your submission, and successful applicants will be awarded the grant.
Why Invest in Solar for Your Farm?
- Reduce Energy Costs: Generate your own power and cut electricity bills.
- Increase Energy Independence: Reduce reliance on the national grid and protect against rising energy prices.
- Sustainability & Net Zero Goals: Reduce carbon emissions and meet industry sustainability targets.
- Long-Term Investment: Solar panels provide reliable, low-maintenance energy for 25+ years.
Why Choose Harvest Green Developments?
At Harvest Green Developments, we specialise in helping farms and agricultual businesses transition to renewable energy with expert guidance and seamless project management. Our services include:
- Grant Application Support: We help you navigate the funding process and maximise your chances of approval and are here to answer any questions along the way.
- Bespoke Solar Solutions: Tailored designs to suit your farm’s energy needs and site conditions.
- Premium Solar Technology: High-efficiency panels and advanced storage solutions for maximum output.
- End-to-End Installation & Maintenance: From feasibility studies to system monitoring, we ensure a hassle-free experience.
Secure Your Solar Grant Today
With limited funding available, now is the time to act. If you’re a farmer in England looking to reduce energy costs and invest in sustainable power, Harvest Green Developments is here to help.
Get in touch today for expert advice and a free consultation on securing solar funding for your farm and check out more information on the funding available on the government website.
