Renner Farm- Belleville, IL
$20K/year in Savings
Elm Farms- Okawville, IL
Over 1,200 Solar Panels Installed
Solar is the Smart Financial Choice for You and Your Farm
“I’m very impressed with what the panels put out compared to the usage. We’re running ahead of the game.”
-Tom Renner, Owner, Renner Farm, Belleville, IL
Local farmers across Illinois and Missouri are achieving predictable energy costs and long-term savings with solar energy, giving them peace of mind against rising energy prices. At EFS Energy, we’ve worked with farmers who want to improve the efficiency of their operations, not just today, but for the next generation. From new tractor technology to seed advancements, farmers are always investing in what works, and solar power is no exception.
By producing your own clean electricity, your farm becomes less dependent on utility rate fluctuations and more resilient for the long haul. Whether you’re running irrigation systems, grain dryers, or livestock buildings, solar panels help you lock in lower energy costs year-round. It’s a practical solution that gives you energy independence, boosts your bottom line, and supports the future of your business.
The Benefits of Solar Energy for Your Farm: Why More Farmers Are Going Solar
Long-Term Cost Savings
Reduce your energy bills significantly by generating your own solar power. Your solar system will continue to provide savings for many years to come. Tom Renner of Renner Farm in Belleville, IL installed a 166-kW solar array in 2017. His system covers 100% of his farm’s energy needs, saving him $20K a year in energy expenses.
Greater Energy Independence
Take control of your energy needs and lessen your reliance on external power companies.
In rural areas with less reliable infrastructure, that added independence matters.
Sustainable Farming
Modernize your operations with solar while staying true to traditional farming values. In a competitive farming economy, using solar energy may help your operation stay ahead.
Diversified Income Streams
Earn extra money for your farm by selling excess electricity back to your local electric company.
Environmental Stewardship (That Pays Off)
Using solar energy reduces your farm’s carbon footprint and positions you as a sustainability leader, which is something more consumers are paying attention to when they choose where to buy. It’s a meaningful way to balance profitability with environmental responsibility.
National Incentives
Federal
The Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
Provides a credit of 30% of the cost for commercial solar energy systems.
Agricultural Grants
Agricultural producers and rural small businesses
Can apply for USDA REAP Grants that cover up to 50% of solar project costs.
Domestic Content
Projects using specified percentages of American-made materials
May receive an additional 10% tax credit.
Depreciation Benefits
That’s right!
You can claim depreciation on your solar energy installation up to 60%.
State Incentives for Illinois Farmers
Illinois Shines Program
- Provides incentives based on system production.
- In our experience, these incentives return roughly 30% of system cost back to the customer.
Smart Inverter Rebate Program
Ameren Illinois customers
Receive up to $300 per kilowatt for installed solar or energy storage systems.
Start Saving with Solar Incentives
When you sign up to install a solar energy system on your farm, you aren’t only lessening your energy load, you’re also lightening your upfront costs thanks to solar incentives. Solar panel installation incentives are now more attractive than ever. By taking advantage of these incentives, you can recover a significant portion of your installation costs, making the transition to solar energy more affordable. Federal and state incentives, tax credits, and grants are available to support your investment in renewable energy. With these incentives, there has never been a better time to go solar.
Power Your Farm’s Future with Smart, Reliable Solar Energy
At EFS Energy, we know farming isn’t just a job, it’s a way of life passed down through generations. Our experienced team works with you to build a custom solar energy system for your farm, designed to match your energy needs, land use, and long-term goals. When you partner with us, you get local experts who understand the agricultural solar landscape in Illinois and Missouri and provide you with ongoing support to ensure your system continues performing for years to come.
We’ve helped farms across the Midwest, from livestock producers to row crop growers, gain peace of mind by generating their own power and maximizing incentives.
And we’re ready to help you do the same. Don’t wait to be the last one to make the switch. Enhance your reputation, reduce costs, and invest in a greener future with solar energy today.
Contact us today to schedule a free 30-minute consultation with a local solar expert who understands farming. We’ll help you take the next step toward a more sustainable and efficient farm.
Project Gallery
Local farms across Illinois and Missouri are reaping the benefits of solar energy.
3407 S. Jefferson Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63118