Young farmer wins role at energy expo

A YOUNG farmer from Harthill has won the chance to present his ideas on renewable energy to a national conference.
Young farmer James Wilks has won the chance to speak about renewable energy at a UK conference next weekYoung farmer James Wilks has won the chance to speak about renewable energy at a UK conference next week
Young farmer James Wilks has won the chance to speak about renewable energy at a UK conference next week

James Wilks will present his thoughts on renewable energy in farming at the Energy Now Expo, which showcases renewable energy options to farmers and landowners.

Competition entrants were asked: “If money was no object, what renewable energy or energy management technology system would you implement to help benefit the farming community?”

James, who is Chairman of Pleasley YFC, said: “I have long had a passion for renewable energy in farming and am actively involved in the industry, both in my work and social life.”

“Many farm businesses are seeing the benefits of both wind and solar schemes in reducing the amount of electricity consumed from the grid as well as a relatively steady income stream.”

But he said that critics of such schemes cite the varying output as the problem to meet demand from the grid.

“My scheme would incorporate both of these technologies as well as a farm scale anaerobic digester, to provide short term operating reserves for times when solar or wind output is low,” said James.

James will take part in the Energy Management Panel on the first day of the expo on Wednesday.

David Jacobmeyer, Energy Now Expo organiser, said he was ‘delighted’ James would be speaking at the conference.

He said: “It is incredibly important that young people get involved with the agriculture industry and it is great to see young farmers like James, showing a real passion for renewable energy which will play a huge part in the future of farming in the UK.”

“We are looking forward to hearing James’ presentation and also to welcoming our other conference speakers who will help to demystify renewable energy options for farmers and businesses.”

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