Wyau Edkins Eggs, located at Coed Farm in the Aeron Valley, Ceredigion, is a 227-acre first-generation, family-run poultry operation managed by Ben Edkins. The farm supplies Oaklands Farm Eggs through two 16,000-bird poultry units and features a self-serve egg shop for local customers.
In 2020, the farm took its first step toward energy independence, driven by a desire to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, improve energy security, and operate more sustainably in a rural location with limited access to robust grid infrastructure.
Solution
AM Power designed and installed a bespoke off-grid renewable energy system tailored to the farm’s operational needs. The initial installation, launched in 2020, included a solar panel array with lithium-ion battery storage. The system uses clean, safe, and rechargeable lithium-ion batteries sourced from China, and incorporates flexible, marine-grade components built for durability and adaptability.
In 2023, the system was expanded to meet growing demand. Additional solar capacity was added to power the egg dispensing unit, lighting, and newly installed fans in the poultry houses. Now entering Phase 3, the farm will further expand its infrastructure with more photovoltaic panels, batteries, and plans to bring the farmhouse and the entire enterprise fully off-grid.
Outcome
The results have exceeded expectations. Over the past 12 months, more than 62% of the farm’s electricity has been generated by the solar system, with the remaining less than 40% supplied by a diesel generator. Ben Edkins reports a seamless installation process and praises AM Power’s accessibility and problem-solving approach.
“It was seamless and speedy in terms of installation, and we are really pleased. Over 62% of the electricity we consume on the farm has come from the solar array. We like the fact that AM Power are easy to get hold of, always just a phone call away. They are always keen to find solutions.”
The farm anticipates a four-year return on investment and is actively progressing toward Phases 3 and 4 to take the entire operation, including the farmhouse, fully off-grid.