Solar Energy System

Apart from captured rainwater, the farm’s water supply is provided by water pumped from a spring-fed dam (called the ‘Farm D’ dam).

To reduce carbon emissions, a solar array and battery system has been installed to support the operation of the Farm D pumping station. The solar photovoltaic (PV) system generates renewable electricity by converting energy from the sun. A zinc-bromine flow battery is used for energy storage.

Ellinbank Configuration

Zinc-bromine Battery Storage

A zinc-bromine flow battery is a rechargeable battery system. The electrochemical mechanism is the same as a lithium-ion battery, but this battery has a water-based electrolyte.

Compared to lithium-ion batteries, this technology is ideal for an agricultural site because of its negligible decline in performance over ten years and stable storage capacity.

The size and weight make them well suited outdoor installation. The disadvantages of this technology can include higher cost.

Ellinbank SmartFarm Solar and Battery for Dam Water Pump System

Further Information

The Ellinbank SmartFarm in Gippsland is Australia’s leading dairy innovation facility, fast-tracking innovative technology solutions in a research environment and showcasing them to the dairy industry. The Ellinbank SmartFarm has a target of becoming a carbon-neutral dairy farm and generating electricity through a range of alternative energy generation options including solar, wind and hydro energy to help achieve this goal.

Download: Ellinbank – Fact Sheet – Solar & Battery Dam Water Pump System (PDF – 1.0MB)