Anyone know about using solar power for chicken houses?

[Dennis S]

Dinerdave’s post reminded me to look into solar power for my nephew’s two chicken houses. He is doing very well with them but said electricity for lights and head was his biggest expense and it was very big. I couldn’t find anyone in that business close to here. He has good credit - I think he and his dad borrowed $500,000 for their houses and are well on the way to paying for them. I’m looking for associations and statistics showing solar vs grid costs, payback, pros and cons, etc.

[mikebw]

I would look up availability of community solar in his area. Lower upfront costs (if any?), less risk than building your own. Of course there you are paying for what you use, versus if you build your own you eventually pay off the system costs and get free power.

Maybe see Project Sunroof - https://sunroof.withgoogle.com/ to get an idea of the possible output for the area.

I don't have any other specific resources to suggest.

[btfc]

For solar panels, it would depend on the size of the chicken house and the amount of light needed.

Perhaps passive solar, solar hot water, or geothermal might work for heat.


https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/geoth...heat-pumps

[cbelt3]

Location will define solar flux. And then the investment payback for solar implementation. Community solar as noted above is a great resource.

Sounds like this is a large operation. Farming resources, grants, etc all exist. Your local Agricultural agent is also a resource.