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INDUSTRY NEWS
Microgrids drive sustainable agriculture
AUSTRALIA ' S almond industry is making significant strides toward sustainability , with over 10 percent of the nation ’ s almond orchards set to be powered by microgrids in the coming years . This innovative solution is quickly gaining traction as new projects take shape , delivering environmental , economic , and logistical benefits to growers . Microgrids are self-sustaining power systems that generate and store electricity locally , making them an ideal fit for agricultural operations . These systems intelligently determine in real-time whether to draw power from solar generation , battery storage , grid supply , or backup generators , optimising energy use and costs . Richard Johnston , Project Development Manager at AGL , has been instrumental in bringing this technology to life . “ We ’ ve completed two operational projects and are developing three more for the almond industry ,” Mr Johnston said . “ Four of these projects are true microgrids , combining solar and battery storage with diesel generators for emergencies . The fifth also integrates renewable solar and battery components .” Benefits Beyond Power Microgrids are transforming the agricultural landscape by addressing key challenges . Historically , remote farms have relied on diesel generators or grid power , leaving them vulnerable to rising fuel costs , blackouts , and power quality issues . Mirogrids provide a cleaner , more reliable solution , reducing greenhouse gas emissions and cutting operational costs . “ These systems are not just about energy generation ,” Mr Johnston said . “ They relieve pressure on the electricity network and contribute to grid stability , especially in areas with limited supply .” On-grid microgrid installations are advantageous , as battery systems seamlessly compensate for power disruptions , ensuring uninterrupted operations . Partnering for Sustainability Under long-term agreements , AGL builds , owns , and operates these microgrids , supplying electricity to almond orchards through Power Purchase Agreements ( PPAs ). Mr Johnston highlights the economic appeal : “ For growers , the cost of
In A Nutshell - Summer 2024 Vol 25 Issue 4
A birdseye view of the microgrid at the Cadell orchard in New South Wales .
microgrid power is often comparable or even cheaper than relying solely on the grid . It also allows flexibility in irrigation , enabling watering schedules that optimise tree health without exposure to grid peak pricing .” Streamlined Implementation Developing a microgrid involves navigating regulatory approvals , which typically take three to six months . In states like South Australia , council and state permits are required for larger systems , whereas in Victoria and NSW , local government permits often suffice , as microgrids are seen as part of irrigation infrastructure . Grid-connected systems also need approval from local network operators . “ We collaborate with growers to design custom solutions and manage everything from permits to construction , and ongoing operations ,” Mr Johnston said . Case Studies in Action AGL ’ s partnership with Australian Farming Services ( AFS ) showcases the transformative potential of microgrids . At Cadell orchard near Tooleybuc , AGL installed a 5ha solar farm paired with a 5.4MWh battery , producing 5.2GWh of clean energy annually . This microgrid powers irrigation systems via underground powerlines , cutting diesel reliance and energy costs . Following the success at Cadell , AFS plans to commission another microgrid at its Canally Orchard after the 2025 harvest . This project will further reduce diesel use while enhancing energy efficiency . David Armstrong , CEO of AFS , emphasises the broader impact : “ Managing over 4,400ha and 1.5 million trees , we ’ re committed to sustainable farming . With AGL ’ s microgrids , we ’ re cutting emissions , reducing diesel use by 85 percent , and achieving up to 40 percent annual energy savings . These systems also provide price stability , energy reliability , and resilience for our orchards .” Together , the Cadell and Canally microgrids will reduce Scope 1 CO2 emissions by about 10,900 tonnes annually , the equivalent of taking more than 3,000 cars off the road . Expanding the Horizon AGL ’ s efforts extend beyond AFS . A new microgrid is under development for an almond orchard in South Australia ’ s Riverland region , and a renewable power plant has been completed at Olam Food Ingredients Kerarbury orchard in the Riverina . The microgrid system features a 6MW solar array and a 4.3MWh battery , generates up to 12,000MWh annually , enough to power 2,200 households . It reduces CO2 emissions by 9,300 tonnes each year , with surplus energy having the option to feed into AGL ’ s Virtual Power Plant to benefit other customers nationwide . A Vision for the Future AGL ’ s Head of Sustainable Business Energy Solutions , Brendan Weinert , says the company ’ s commitment to renewable energy aligns with a lowcarbon future . “ Partnerships like these help us deliver on net-zero goals , working together with customers and communities .” By embracing microgrids , Australia ’ s almond orchards are not only becoming greener but also more resilient , setting a strong example for sustainable agriculture worldwide .