BONUS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2025

For South African farmers, reliable and affordable energy is more than just a necessity - it’s a lifeline. With Eskom’s unpredictable power supply and escalating electricity costs, many farmers are exploring alternative ways to achieve energy independence. While there are various options available, choosing the right solution can be daunting. Understanding the benefits and limitations of each approach is crucial to making an informed decision that secures both your farm’s operations and profitability. The case for energy independence “Farmers are increasingly aware that relying solely on Eskom is no longer sustainable,” says André Nel, registered professional engineer and CEO of Ordiphase. “Frequent power cuts can disrupt critical processes like irrigation, poultry farming, cold storage, and factories, leading to significant financial losses. Achieving energy independence means not only protecting your business from these disruptions, but also gaining control over your energy costs.” In regions like the Western Cape, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga where agricultural activities are heavily dependent on consistent power supply, farmers are feeling the pinch. A large dairy farm in Limpopo that also runs a factory, suffered extensive losses due to increased operating costs during frequent loadshedding. Their managing director said that “their business will not be able to absorb losses much longer,” Nel recalls. “As their solar farm does not have sufficient solar capacity they must rely on a 800 kVA generator that cost up to R9 per kWh to run - roughly four times more expensive than Eskom power.” Understanding your options When it comes to achieving energy independence, farmers have several options to choose from: 1. Self-owned solar systems: While these systems offer a level of independence from the grid, they come with significant upfront costs and the burden of ongoing maintenance. Additionally, scaling the system to meet future energy needs can be challenging and expensive. 2. Rent-to-own solar solutions: This model provides an affordable entry point, but often lacks flexibility. Farmers may find themselves locked into long-term contracts with systems that may not be optimised for their evolving needs. 3. GreenTower ESS bespoke solutions: The GreenTower Energy Security Service (ESS) model, developed by Ordiphase, offers a unique approach. Unlike traditional models, it provides a fully managed and monitored solution that is tailored to each farm’s specific requirements. “Our ESS solutions are designed Breaking free from Eskom: a guide to energy independence