DIY Solar for Farmers: How the NOREASTER Makes Installations Easy and Affordable

Installing solar energy system on your farm might seem intimidating at first. But we built the NOREASTER micro solar farm so that you can do it yourself – all we need to do is to complete the electrical work and commissioning.

The concept of DIY seems to be embedded in farming itself. Throughout history, farmers have had to rely on themselves to get things done, whether due to necessity, proximity to other resources or cost. At The Smart Energy Company, we believe that achieving your energy independence should include the ability to install your own NOREASTER yourself.

Installing you NOREASTER is easier than you think

When you choose a DIY NOREASTER solar energy system, all the components are shipped together in a kit to your farm. The NOREASTER is farmer designed with these simple-to-install features:

• Ground Mounted design: Choose an unproductive area for your farm, out of the way and where you can maximize sun exposure. No need to climb onto the roof of your barn or farmhouse. With no moving parts, it’s low maintenance and simple to manage.

• Integrated wiring: Patent pending design with no perimeter fencing required.

• Durable aluminum racking: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant and built to withstand tough Canadian weather conditions.

• Flexible foundations: Compatible with helical piles, ground, screws, concrete forms or sonotubes.

• Pre-assembled inverter: Outdoor-rated and ready to connect.

• Step-by-step guide: Detailed instruction manual and unmatched local support.

The NOREASTER is a modular system that can be scaled up as your energy needs grow. It’s designed to be easily repeatable for future expansion.

“We tend to try to do everything we can. It was pretty simple; just like LEGO, you bolt it together, stand it up. We chose to put ours on a concrete slab. A lot of people do screws or helical piles, but the slab again was something we could do ourselves. It was as affordable as we can make it.”

– Paul McConkey, New Meadow Farm, Tower Hill, New Brunswick (from Eggs New Brunswick 2024 AGM)

Why farmers are choosing the DIY option

For some farmers, DIY is the preferred option. It’s a flexible option for those who:

• Want to take control of their investment

• Have the time and equipment to manage a small construction project

• Are comfortable working with tools and following instructions

We’re also here to help at every stage. The NOREASTER DIY kit includes everything you need, and we offer live local support to walk you through any challenges during the build.

Going DIY can save at least $10,000 in installation costs. Our savings calculator shows potential savings, including government incentives and the payback on a DIY NOREASTER system.

When to consider a turnkey NOREASTER

Sometimes DIY isn’t the right fit. We also offer turnkey installation, handled entirely by The Smart Energy Company team. It’s ideal if:

• You’re in peak season and manpower is tight

• You prefer to focus on core operations

• You want a done-for-you solar solution from start to finish

Many of our customers opt for this route – especially those with more complex projects. How do I know if my project is complex?

Reach out to our team and we’ll complete a custom assessment of your energy needs and provide a recommendation of the best solar solution for your farm.