Wilandra farms has integrated the automation of 22 ha of fixed spray irrigation and a 50 kW solar array. The automation programming maximises solar usage by matching available energy to spray operation, whilst also scheduling irrigation sections, all automatically.
This has resulted in:
- 22 ha irrigated effectively with 95% solar power
- lower electricity bills
- less impact on the electricity grid
- increased pasture growth compared to previous system
- zero labour requirement to irrigate.
‘The system has a ‘brain’ constantly making clever decisions, ensuring our irrigation requirements are met while maximising solar usage.’ – Sandra Jefford
Other learnings from the project include:
- maximising solar usage requires many smaller energy loads and some variable loads
- current solar array may allow for some expansion of the fixed spray irrigation system
‘It is a dream to use, it has been so effective we are already looking to expand the footprint of the spray system.’ – Wilco Droppert
To learn more about the project read the factsheet or project report.
The AEI “SmartBox” and variable speed drives that run Wilandra Farm’s fixed spray irrigation
This project was funded by the Victorian Government’s Sustainable Irrigation Program (SIP) which has recently run several irrigation demonstration projects to showcase innovative practices and technologies. Further information on the program and the other demonstration projects can be found here.
Further information
Find out more about energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades Wilandra Farms has implemented.
