Zeelie Broers Boerdery, an irrigation farm nestled in the heart of Christiana, Free State, marks a pioneering step in sustainable agriculture through the strategic adoption of fully funded solar energy. This forward-thinking project reflects a growing trend in the agricultural sector, where solar finance and clean energy solutions are reshaping the way farms operate, delivering both environmental and economic gains.
At the core of this transformation is a solar installation with a capacity of 3.4MW generating an impressive 6.598 GWh of clean energy annually. This renewable energy powers the farm’s high demand irrigation system, significantly reducing reliance on Eskom’s national grid while promoting energy independence and long-term cost savings. Through a structured Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) facilitated by Enfin Energy Finance, Zeelie Broers Boerdery was able to secure this cutting-edge solution through a solar financing model that eliminated the need for upfront capital, making it a textbook case of solar financing in action.
Innovation Rooted in Efficiency
Commissioned on August 17, 2025, with construction starting in January 2024, the project was developed and executed by the Del Group, acting as the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) partner. This was not just another solar installation, it’s an engineering milestone. The farm employs advanced photovoltaic panels and Variable Speed Drive (VSD) pumps to maximise energy efficiency and optimise water usage.
One of the standout features of this site is its rain-harvested water storage system, where solar-powered pumps fill a dam. Water is them distributed via gravity fed irrigation, removing the need for electrically powered pumps during water distribution. This sustainable design slashes electricity usage, conserves water and lowers overall operational costs, reinforcing the economic value of solar finance in agriculture.
Environmental and Economic Impact
With an annual output of 6.598 GWh, Zeelie Broers Boerdery’s solar system doesn’t just power irrigation, it drives resilience. The system supports uninterrupted farming during high-demand seasons, ensuring crop security even amidst South Africa’s energy uncertainty.
From an environmental standpoint, the benefits are remarkable:
- 5,875 tonnes of CO2 emissions avoided annually
- 146 228kg of coal saved year
These stats highlight the critical role of solar financing in reducing the agricultural sector’s carbon footprint, proof that fully funded solar can be both green and growth oriented.
Energy Security Through Solar Finance
Agricultural enterprises in rural areas like Christiana often face grid limitations and rising electricity costs. Through Enfin’s solar finance model and tailored Power Purchase Agreement, Zeelie Broers Boerdery gains long-term energy price stability and complete independence from the grid. This shields the farm from load-shedding and energy price hikes, creating a dependable operational environment for its irrigation systems.
The success of this project is not just about power, it’s about resilience, predictability and future-proofing a vital agricultural operation.
Overcoming Challenges, Delivering Results
Delivering a project of this scale was not easy. The team faced logistical challenges, supply chain delays and complex coordination requirements. However, through diligent project management and the collaboration between Enfin Energy Finance and DEL GROUP, the project was completed on schedule, establishing a blueprint for large-scale solar finance projects in South Africa.
A model for the Future of Farming
Zeelie Broers Boerdery’s solar-powered irrigation system is more than a technological achievement, it’s a symbol of what’s possible when renewable energy, smart engineering, and innovative solar finance solutions come together. By reducing environmental impact, enhancing energy security, and delivering cost-effective results, this project offers a compelling case study for other farms across South Africa and beyond.
Enfin Energy Finance remains committed to driving the agricultural sector forward through solar financing solutions that support energy independence, environmental stewardship and economic resilience.