Go solar with the Improving Farm Productivity Grant

Leaning on the expertise of Certas Energy, we’re specialists in solar solutions that drive down operational costs and save big money.

Round 2 deadline: 21st March

Round 2 of the grant is now open but time’s running out to see if you’re eligible

Find out now if your farm is eligible for a grant of up to £100k

Solar PV systems are a great choice for farmers and horticultural businesses. As well as making the most of space on building assets, these systems harness free solar power, work towards energy independence, and help lower carbon footprints.

Access market leading expertise, with Evolo from Certas Energy

Evolo enables our customers to tap into a market-leading network of solar businesses that are part of the Certas group. We can help save farmers money on operational costs as well as lowering carbon emissions.

Take control of your energy costs

Under the pressure of spiralling energy costs and sustainability targets higher up the supply chain, it’s becoming increasingly important for those in the agricultural industry to consider better value and cleaner energy sources, like solar.

All made easier with the IFP grant scheme

While the cost of installing solar may seem like a barrier, the Improving Farm Productivity grant could help. This funding supports farmers in a range of areas, including the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV)systems.

What is the Improving Farm
Productivity grant?

This government funding provides grants towards large capital items, which can boost productivity, including and such as Solar PV systems

Round 2 of the grant has more emphasis on solar PV than its predecessor, ex plains rural insurer, NFUMutual, and can provide up to 25% of the cost of solar systems.Applications are now open for some farms and horticultural businesses to apply for between £15, 000 and £100,000 in funding.

How to apply
The first part of the two-stage application is open until 21 March 2024. It’s a competitive process, which means you won’t automatically be awarded the grant, but stage one enables you to check if you’re eligible to apply.

Stage one – online checker
Before you start, make sure you have the required information to hand. You’ll need to answer questions about things like the project location, if it’s land that the farm business owns, any required planning permission and the estimated cost. Once you’ve submitted this stage, you will be told if you’re not eligible.

If you are eligible, you’ll be asked additional questions, including:

  • The size of the solar PV system that meets your farm’s energy demands

  • The items included in the system.

We can help you with this information through a remote or site survey, giving you everything you need to make your application.

Our Renewable Energy Division is here to support your move towards solar power.

The Application Process

Before starting Stage 1 of the application process for the Improving Farm Productivity grant, you should prepare the following information and documents to ensure a smooth application process.

1

Business Details

Have your business details readily available, including the legal business name, address, and type (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation).

2

Project Location

Information about the location of the proposed project, including whether it's on land the farm business owns or if there's a tenancy agreement in place.

3

Planning Permission

Details of any planning permission that may be required for the project. If planning permission has not yet been obtained, be prepared to discuss the status and next steps.

4

Project Description

A clear description of what your project entails, including the specific capital items you are looking to fund with the grant and how these items will improve farm productivity.

5

Estimated Costs

An estimate of the total cost of the project, including a breakdown of costs for individual capital items you intend to purchase with the grant.

6

Environmental Impact

Information on how your project will reduce the farm's environmental impact, if applicable. This could include details on energy efficiency, waste reduction, or other sustainability measures.

7

Agricultural or Horticultural Production Details

Specific details about how the project will improve efficiency and effectiveness of primary agricultural or horticultural production.

How can Evolo from Certas Energy help me with Stage 2 of the application?

Before starting Stage 2 of the application process for the Improving Farm Productivity grant, you'll need to gather more detailed information and documentation to support your full application. This stage requires a deeper level of detail about your project, its financials, and its expected outcomes.

By booking a FREE site survey with Evolo from Certas Energy we will provide you with the key information you need for Stage 2 of your application. Our RenewableEnergy Division is here to support your move towards solar power.

Here's what a FREE site survey with Evolo from Certas Energy can help you prepare:

Full Project Proposal

A detailed description of your project, including objectives, expected benefits, and how it aligns with the grant's funding priorities (improving productivity, environmental benefits, innovation, and addressing labor shortages).

Detailed Budget

A comprehensive budget that includes itemised costs for all aspects of the project. This should cover capital items, installation costs, and any other associated expenses. Be ready to provide quotes or estimates to support these figures.

Planning Permission Documentation

If your project requires planning permission, you should have obtained this by Stage 2. Include all relevant documentation and approvals.

Land Ownership or Tenancy Agreement

Proof of land ownership or a tenancy agreement that shows you have the right to execute the project on the property.

Landlord Agreement (if applicable)

If you're a tenant and your landlord is underwriting the agreement, include documentation of their commitment to take over the project if necessary.

Financial Records

Three years of financial accounts and tax returns for your business. This helps demonstrate the financial stability and viability of your business.

Financial Projections

Detailed financial projections that show the expected impact of the project on your business's financial performance.

Environmental Impact Assessment (if applicable)

Details on the environmental impact of your project, including any assessments or studies conducted.

Evidence of Consultation or Support

If you've consulted with or received support from external agencies, industry bodies, or experts, include evidence of these consultations and any recommendations or endorsements received.

Project Outputs and Outcomes

Clear definitions of what the project will achieve, including expected outputs and outcomes. This could relate to productivity improvements, environmental benefits, or other key objectives.

Project Timeline

A realistic timeline for your project, including key milestones and dates by which you expect to complete different phases of the project.

Preparation

Preparing thoroughly for Stage 2 is crucial for a successful application. This stage requires you to demonstrate not only the viability and benefits of your project but also your capacity to manage and deliver it effectively.

Tap into a network that delivers for you

Working with Evolo gives you access to leading renewable energy companies, with the financial backing and resources of Certas Energy.

Frequently asked questions

  • Both land owning and tenant farmers in England are eligible to apply for the grant. This includes farmers, horticulturalists, and contractors with a registered business address in England. However, government departments, executive agencies, non-departmental public bodies, members of Producer Organisations under the Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Aid Scheme, and forestry businesses are not eligible.

  • The grant can be used to pay for capital items that help improve farm productivity, this includes solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

  • The application process is competitive and involves two stages:

    Stage 1: Use the online checker by 21 March 2024 to see if you're eligible and how well your project fits the funding priorities.

    Stage 2: If eligible, you'll be invited to submit a full application, which RPA will score against a range of criteria.

  • The online checker closes at 11:59pm on 21 March 2024 and the first part of the two-stage application process is open until 21 March 2024.

  • Yes, the grant supports the installation of solar PV systems, including solar panels, batteries, inverters, utility meters, electrical grid connections, and power diverters. However, solar panels cannot be installed on north facing roofs or ones that are heavily shaded, and ground-based solar arrays are not eligible.

  • Tenant farmers can apply but must obtain necessary permissions from their landlords. If the tenancy is less than 5 years, tenants can sign the grant funding agreement on their own or ask their landlord to underwrite the agreement.

  • The grant cannot be used in conjunction with other public money, such as funding from local authorities, nor for capital works required as part of other agreements.

Speak with an expert today

Round 2 of the grant is now open – but only until March 21st – so time’s running out to see if you’re eligible.