Innovative Solar Array Spells Out 'Mmm... Milk' on Belgian Farm
Kortessem, Friday, 30 August 2024.
Farmer Ludo Vandebrouck in Kortessem, Belgium, has installed 250 solar panels on his barn roof, arranged to spell ‘mmm… milk’. This creative approach combines sustainable energy with a proud message about dairy farming, challenging negative perceptions of agriculture while promoting renewable energy adoption.
Pioneers in Renewable Energy
The Vandebrouck-Vanheusden family’s dairy and crop farming business, located along Leenstraat in Vliermaalroot, Kortessem, has become a beacon of innovation in renewable energy. The installation of 250 solar panels, configured to spell out ‘mmm… milk’, is as much a statement of pride as it is a commitment to sustainability. This project, launched on 29 August 2024, aims to address the farm’s energy requirements while reducing its carbon footprint.
Energy Efficiency Through Smart Solutions
Energy expert Stijn Dillen from PowerYourself played a pivotal role in the project’s success. By meticulously analyzing the farm’s energy consumption patterns over two weeks, Dillen identified peak usage times in the morning and evening during milking sessions. To align solar energy production with these peaks, a 200 kWh battery system equipped with advanced balancing and climate control features was integrated. This setup ensures maximum energy storage and utilization, allowing the farm to operate independently from the local grid[1].
Community-Driven Solar Initiatives
In addition to the Vandebrouck-Vanheusden farm’s private efforts, the broader Kortessem community is also embracing solar energy. A collaborative effort between the local government, Bronsgroen cv, and Ecopower cv has led to the installation of 170 solar panels on three public buildings. Funded entirely by local residents, this €80,000 project not only generates 68,000 kWh annually but also prevents 16 tons of CO2 emissions each year. The initiative underscores the municipality’s commitment to achieving a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2030, in line with the Flemish Energy and Climate Plan (VEKP)[2].
Inspiring Future Green Projects
These initiatives in Kortessem are part of a growing trend towards sustainable energy solutions in agriculture. The success of these projects serves as a model for other communities and farms looking to reduce their environmental impact. By showcasing the practical benefits and community support for renewable energy, Kortessem is setting a new standard in green innovation. The local dairy industry, often criticized for its environmental footprint, is demonstrating that it can be a leader in the fight against climate change.