With the continuing rise of energy bills, farmers are having to find alternative routes to survive. The STAR Asset Finance Group builds relationships with our customers at a local level and knows the issues they are facing.
One such customer is a well-established (over 20 years) pig farming partnership based in West Yorkshire. The partnership has a herd of around 70 sows and the focus is taking piglets from birth until weaning at around six weeks old. Because of the piglets’ age the pig sheds are constantly heated to ensure the animals’ health and wellbeing. Up until now this heat has been provided by mains electricity. However, the recent massive increases in energy costs have seen the farm’s electricity bill jump from around £10000.00 per annum to nearly £50000.00 per annum; at this level the farm business was no longer viable and there was a real risk of the business closing.
To be able to continue trading for the foreseeable future our client has sourced and acquired a 235 kW biomass boiler to enable both the pig sheds and farmhouse to be heated. The fuel source for the boiler is timber and straw currently grown and available on the farm; therefore the costs to run the boiler are negligible. Over five years and with a minimal deposit the partnership’s annual finance payments are less than the previous annual electricity charge.
As a result of bringing this boiler on stream the partnership has brought its costs under control and is now looking to expand its herd of sows in 2023.
The partners chose to work with the STAR Asset Finance Group on this project based on existing relationships, our knowledge of the renewable energy finance marketplace, and our ability to quickly provide a flexible solution to their problem.
Biomass boilers can produce 8 times lower carbon dioxide compared to traditional gas boilers, and use sustainable fuel. A biomass boiler could help you reduce your energy bills and environmental impact.
We’re part of the STAR Asset Finance Group, a national business with a local touch. Speak to one of the team on 01872 272900 or get in touch below.
