Modern farming is far more energy-intensive than most people realise. From milking parlours and refrigeration units to irrigation systems and automated feeding equipment, electricity underpins almost every operation. When power stops, productivity stops, and that’s something no farm can afford.
At Generators For Export, we understand the unique energy demands of agricultural businesses. Our generator solutions are built to keep farms productive, protect perishable goods, and maintain operations in even the most remote locations.
How Much Electricity Does a Farm Use?
Electricity demand varies greatly depending on the type, size, and level of automation on a farm. However, several benchmarks provide a clear picture:
- Average usage – Typical UK farms consume between 25,000 and 100,000 kWh per year, while large dairy or mixed farms can exceed 150,000 kWh annually.
- Dairy farms – Among the highest consumers, with daily usage often reaching 200-350 kWh due to milking, cooling, and cleaning systems.
- Arable farms – Usually lower, around 60-100 kWh per day, primarily used for irrigation, grain drying, and machinery.
- Poultry and pig farms – Require continuous heating and ventilation, frequently exceeding 100,000 kWh per year.
Electricity is now one of the largest operating expenses for UK farms, in some cases accounting for up to 40% of total running costs. Reliable, efficient power sources are a necessity not just a convenience.
What Drives Electricity Demand on Farms
- Machinery and Automation: Conveyor belts, feed systems, robotic milkers, and crop-processing equipment all rely on constant, high-capacity power.
- Cooling and Refrigeration: Milk tanks, produce chillers, and cold stores must operate continuously, making them the biggest single power users on most farms.
- Irrigation and Water Pumps: Arable and horticultural operations depend on electric pumps during dry periods, creating heavy, short-term loads.
- Heating and Ventilation: Temperature control systems in poultry and pig units draw significant power, especially through the winter months.
- Lighting and Security: Extensive lighting and CCTV systems add to baseline demand, particularly on larger or 24-hour farms.
Why Reliable Power Matters
For rural and agricultural sites, power cuts can cause serious disruption. A loss of electricity can stop milking, spoil perishable produce, or halt irrigation systems, leading to downtime and lost income.
That’s where backup generators come in. A correctly sized generator ensures your essential operations keep running, no matter what happens to the grid.
For example:
A dairy farm using around 300 kWh per day would typically need a 30-40 kVA generator to cover critical systems.
Hybrid solutions combining diesel generators with solar or battery storage can cut fuel use and operating costs.
At Generators for Export, we help you select and configure the right generator for your load profile, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and long service life. We supply trusted global brands, pre-tested units, and export-ready systems that meet agricultural standards across multiple regions.
Why Farmers Choose Generators For Export
- Agricultural expertise – We understand the power challenges farms face, from daily demand to seasonal peaks.
- Reliable products – Every generator is fully tested and supported by our expert team before shipping.
- Custom power solutions – From compact standby units to large-scale systems, we match power to your exact needs.
- Worldwide delivery – Fast, efficient export options ensure your generator arrives ready to install.
- After-sales support – We provide guidance on maintenance, servicing, and long-term reliability.
Keep Your Farm Running with Reliable Power
Electricity demand across farms remains consistently high, making a reliable power supply essential. The right backup generator safeguards livestock, crops, and income when the grid goes down. With a professionally sized and installed system from Generators For Export, you can keep your farm operating smoothly without interruption.
At Generators For Export, we supply high-quality used diesel generators built to meet the heavy demands of agricultural work. Whether you need a compact standby system or a full-scale farm power solution, our team can help you choose the right unit for your operation.
Contact us today to discuss your farm’s power requirements and find a generator you can depend on.
Call: +44(0)1386 553344 | Email: sales@gfe.uk.com