The agricultural sector faces a major challenge: to become more sustainable without sacrificing business continuity. Energy plays a key role in this. More and more farmers are investing in solar panels, but what happens to the generated electricity if it is not used immediately? This is where the battery container comes into play.

A battery container makes it possible to store solar energy generated in the summer for later use. This is particularly valuable in agriculture, where energy consumption fluctuates greatly per season – think of irrigation in the summer, barn ventilation in the winter, or electric tools in the spring. In this blog, we explain how a battery container contributes to sustainable farming, how you can use it on your farm or land, and what the benefits are compared to traditional energy solutions.

Why is energy storage so interesting for farmers?

Farmers are increasingly generating their own energy via solar panels or wind turbines. But this often happens at times when relatively little energy is consumed. Think of sunny summer days, while most installations run at full power only in winter. Without storage, a large part of this generated electricity is lost or supplied back to the grid at low rates.

A battery container prevents this loss. Excess energy is stored and can be used later at any desired moment. This is ideal for farms that:

• Use electric irrigation

• Deploy mobile cooling or freezing installations

• Work with electric tools or tractors

• Want to save on peak consumption during expensive energy rates

• Want to operate off-grid during grid issues

By cleverly using seasonal storage with a battery container, solar energy becomes truly profitable.

How does a battery container work on the farm?

A battery container is a portable energy storage unit with lithium-ion batteries. It is connected to the existing solar panel installation on the farm or in a field and can independently buffer and supply electricity. During high production moments, it stores the energy, and during peak consumption moments, it releases it – fully automatically.

In addition, many containers are equipped with smart monitoring software, allowing you to see the storage level, charging status, and consumption in real-time via an app or web interface. This way, you, as an agricultural entrepreneur, can easily manage efficiency.

Typical applications on farms:

• Charging electric tractors or quads

• Nighttime electricity supply in barns without grid load

• Energy supply on remote plots (off-grid)

• Peak shaving during milking robot sessions or cooling

What are the advantages of energy storage in agriculture?

Using a battery container on a farm offers a wide range of benefits – economic, ecological, and operational.

Some direct benefits are:

• Less dependence on the power grid: No worries about grid congestion or supply restrictions.

• Lower energy costs: Use stored electricity during expensive hours or with dynamic rates.

• More return from solar panels: Less supplying back, more self-consumption.

• Sustainable image: Important for subsidies and certifications such as PlanetProof or Better Life.

• Flexibility: Also usable on remote plots without grid connection.

This way, as a farmer, you make smart use of your own generation capacity and comply with future regulations.

Are battery containers suitable for off-grid applications?

Absolutely. Especially in agriculture, there are many situations where no grid connection is available. Think of temporary installations on fields, remote feed stations, or irrigation systems in the field.

A battery container offers an ideal solution here. By combining it with a mobile solar installation, you can realize off-grid energy supply without a diesel generator. Moreover, the system is whisper-quiet and emission-free, which is also pleasant for animals and the environment.

For larger farms, it is also possible to connect multiple containers in parallel, allowing you to run entire business processes autonomously – even during prolonged grid outages or in areas where connection expansion is impossible.

What does this mean for sustainable and future-proof farming?

Dutch agriculture must become more sustainable at a fast pace. Battery containers fit seamlessly into this development. They make it possible to operate independently, save costs, and ensure a lower CO₂ footprint without compromising efficiency or business certainty.

By investing in a battery container, you prepare your farm for:

• The energy transition

• Smart grid integration and demand response

• Self-sufficient agriculture

• CO₂ reduction within ESG goals

In short: a practical and strategic step towards future-proof farming.

Frequently asked questions about battery containers in agriculture

How much electricity can I store in a battery container?
This depends on the model, but typical agricultural variants store between 100 and 500 kWh.

Can I use a small container for one application?
Yes, there are compact models for, for example, one barn or pumping installation.

Are subsidies available?
Yes, via SDE++, EIA, and POP3, agricultural entrepreneurs can apply for subsidies.

Is a battery container mobile deployable?
Absolutely, many models are movable with a forklift or tractor.

How maintenance-sensitive is a battery container?
Minimal. Annual inspection is sufficient, and many systems monitor themselves.

How long does a battery container last?
Generally 10 to 15 years with normal use, depending on charge cycles.

Can battery containers withstand rain, dust, and temperature fluctuations?
Yes, they are designed for outdoor use on farms and in the field.