Increasing efficiency and production output is vitally important to growing companies and today’s innovative owners seek out solutions with sustainability in mind. All types of industries are increasing focus on environmental impact to reduce carbon footprints and improve the world around us. A great example of this worldwide effort can be seen on a 12,500 hectare farm in Mato Grosso, Brazil through the combination of a center pivot irrigation system and photovoltaic plant.

In January 2021, the Arni Alberto Spiering Farm decreased its reliance of the grid due to its new 1,284.87 kWp photovoltaic solar plant. The 3,840 modules (335Wp each) and 10 inverters (100kW each) will produce 1,897.21 MWh/year, reducing the farm’s energy cost by 52.34%. This energy will power the new center pivots irrigating the soy, corn and beans cultivated on the farm. The center pivots selected for this project are well-known for their durability, longevity, and water conservation properties. With the investment of the photovoltaic plant and center pivot, the farm was able to drastically reduce the energy consumed, making it possible to increase the productivity and the profitability of the business while generating clean and sustainable energy.

The manufacturing company of both the solar modules and center pivot has specified hot-dip galvanizing for over 50 years. The utilization of the 100% natural zinc coating reflects the earth-friendly intent of the equipment designed to maximize food production and conserve water. The zinc in hot-dip galvanized steel is infinitely recyclable and essential for life, while the unbeatable corrosion protection means no energy or materials will be wasted on routine touch-up and maintenance required by other corrosion protection systems.

In addition to sustainability, longevity and life-cycle cost played vital roles throughout the specification process for this project. Exposure to different soils, moisture and heavy equipment coupled with the humid climate in Brazil creates a very corrosive environment. Both the ground mounted structure for the photovoltaic modules and the center pivot are made from steel and, if left bare, these components would rust very quickly. Case studies have proven galvanized steel performs very well in all types of environments. In fact, a pivot in service since 1977 was still completely protected with 3.3 to 3.9 mils of zinc after decades of operation. Hot-dip galvanizing drastically increases the service life therefore providing a high financial return to the investor as well.