Project overview
Windmill Farm Park, a family-friendly destination offering farm and outdoor adventure experiences in South Leicestershire, has demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by integrating a solar energy solution. The farm worked with Plug Me In's solar division to install a 77.08 kWp solar photovoltaic (PV) system. Consisting of 188 high-efficiency solar panels, this system is expected to generate approximately 65,056 kWh of electricity per year, reducing the farm’s carbon footprint by an estimated 241 tonnes of CO₂ over a 20-year period.

 

Installation details
The solar panels were installed on two farm buildings with pitched roofs - one featuring a cement fibre roof and the other a trapezoidal roof. A pitched roof mounting system was used, whereby brackets were fixed to the roof, rails were laid across and panels were then mounted onto the rails. The installation was completed within a three-week timeframe, carefully planned to ensure minimal disruption to the farm’s operations and visitors.

 

Financial and environmental impact
The solar installation at Windmill Farm Park is expected to achieve a payback period of four years, with immediate savings on the farm’s energy bills. In the first year alone, the farm anticipated saving around £19,940. Over the life of the system, the energy generated will contribute significantly to both financial savings and environmental benefits, reinforcing the farm’s dedication to green energy.

Solar System Capacity: 77.08 kWp
Number of PV Panels: 188
Annual Energy Generation: 65,056 kWh
Total CO₂ Savings: 241 tonnes over 20 years
First-Year Financial Savings: £19,940
ROI Period: 4 years
Installation Duration: 3 weeks