When a local farm began construction on a new solar project in northeast Arkansas, the agricultural community took notice. Delta Farms and its adjacent Southland Gin in Lake City; in collaboration with Craighead Electric Cooperative and Today’s Power Inc. (TPI), launched a three-pronged farm solar energy venture that combines two energy technologies with battery storage capabilities. Today, the project is fully operational and powering their extensive operation.
Financing a Farm Energy Project
The core of the operation lies with four partners: Len Nall, Aaron Garner, Gregg Garner and Blake Robertson. Together, they oversee the production of cotton, corn, peanuts, rice and soybeans across approximately 18,000 acres in Lake City, along with operating Southland Gin. Their decision to pursue solar power came from assessing their significant energy demands — from irrigation pumps and grain bins to their main shop.
With a comprehensive plan outlining the operation’s energy needs and projected offsets, the partners approached their long-time lender, Farm Credit. “Farm Credit understands ag,” said Nall. “And they understand how we work. They have always been receptive to our goals, more so than any other lending institution.”
Support from Senior Financial Officer Justin Griffin, who understood the complexity of their operation, helped secure financing for the 14.59-acre solar field. The project was designed to provide clean energy for both Delta Farms and Southland Gin over the next two decades.
Agriculture's Sustainable Energy Switch
The move to solar energy aligns with a broader shift in agriculture toward more environmentally sustainable practices, such as utilizing cover crops, crop rotation and conservation tillage, to build more resilient farms and communities. For Delta Farms, solar energy has helped reduce their overall energy impact. The system now generates enough electricity to power the electrical consumption of both facilities and then some.
The partners’ said their motivation extended beyond pure economics. While the long-term savings will develop overtime, sustainability remains their priority. “If the project does nothing more than pay for itself, that’s enough,” Nall said. “We’re trying to do our part to conserve energy and protect the environment.”
For those in the agricultural sector considering a similar investment, Nall recommends checking into its viability. “Most older farmers don’t really like change,” said Garner. “Being able to accept change and willing to try something new is what has helped us get to where we are today.”
Delta Farms Leads by Example
Despite the success of the solar project, the farmers still face common industry hurdles. “Our biggest challenge is a misunderstanding from the public,” said Robertson. “They often don't grasp the immense impact farmers have in providing safe, affordable food for the entire country.” By adopting solar power, the partners hope to lead by example, demonstrating the value of innovation and a commitment to sustainability.
Len, Aaron, Gregg and Blake approached this project with confidence and a shared purpose. They offer their story not just as a success case, but as a challenge to others in the industry. “Here’s our story,” they shared. “This is what we’ll do. What will you do?”
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