Solar Cables for Agrivoltaics
The use of agricultural buildings and open fields for agrivoltaics, or AgriPV, is becoming increasingly popular. Big Dutchman has recognized this trend as well. For some time now, the global specialist in livestock housing and feed systems has been installing solar modules for its customers and combining them with customized battery storage systems to improve efficiency. In the harsh conditions of agriculture, HELUKABEL cables and wires help ensure these systems operate reliably.
As the global population grows, so does the demand for food. Current projections estimate that by 2050, the world’s population will increase by 20 percent to roughly 10 billion people. Feeding everyone is becoming an even greater global challenge, particularly for the agriculture industry, which is responsible for producing most of the food and feed we rely on.
For this reason, the industry is constantly searching for ways to increase efficiency and productivity. Having the right technology is essential—and this happens to be Big Dutchman AG’s specialty. The company is a global leader in feed systems and modern livestock housing. Founded in 1938 in the United States, Big Dutchman’s headquarters is now located in Vechta-Calveslage, Lower Saxony, Germany. Today, the company employs more than 3,100 people worldwide across more than 30 locations.
Portfolio Expanded
Under the product name of SunFarm, Big Dutchman installs photovoltaic systems onto livestock housing and in open fields for their customers.
Big Dutchman’s first product was an automatic feeding system for poultry. Over the years, the company expanded its offerings to include housing systems for layer hens and broilers, as well as pig farming solutions. New business areas such as insect breeding and greenhouse construction are also being developed. In addition, Big Dutchman has been exploring renewable energy production in agriculture for some time. The use of agricultural buildings and open spaces for photovoltaics—known as AgriPV—has become an important trend in the shift toward renewable energy.
"The large, open areas typical of agricultural operations are ideal for producing solar energy," explains Nils Neugebauer, Product Manager for Photovoltaics & Batteries at Big Dutchman. "With our SunFarm and SunBox systems, we offer customers solutions not only for generating energy but also for storing it. The combination allows users to cover a significant portion of their own energy needs and reduce energy costs."
Battery Storage – Increased Flexibility
Under the SunFarm product name, Big Dutchman installs photovoltaic systems on livestock buildings and open fields for its customers. The company uses high-quality components that are especially well-suited for the harsh conditions found in agriculture. System efficiency is further improved by integrating the SunBox—a stationary battery storage container solution. With it, farmers can store the generated electricity and use it as needed, even when the sun isn’t shining. This helps reduce costs and increases independence from the public power grid.
One major advantage of the SunBox system is its flexibility. The battery storage units are modular and can be installed in parallel. This allows for storage capacities ranging from a few kilowatt-hours up to 20 megawatt-hours. An intelligent management system monitors and controls the charging and discharging of each module to ensure optimal performance. "With our app, users have access to all key data—such as charge levels and energy flow—anytime directly on their smartphones," adds Neugebauer.
Cables are a crucial component of PV and energy storage systems. The solar modules must be connected not only to each other but also to the inverter, which makes the generated electricity usable. Battery storage systems also require various cables to transmit power, signals, and data. For this, Big Dutchman has relied on HELUKABEL’s competence and expertise for many years. "Our collaboration goes back to 2008," recalls Neugebauer. "We were already using HELUKABEL’s electrical connection technology in other parts of our product portfolio, so it was an obvious choice to use it for our PV range as well."
Cables that Defy Wind and Weather
The use of agricultural buildings and open fields for agrivoltaics is a significant part of the energy transition.
The conditions faced by AgriPV systems are demanding. These systems are exposed year-round to moisture, temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, dust, dirt, and even the constant risk of damage from rodents. Cables and wires must be resilient against all these external factors to ensure the system operates reliably over time. "We use only high-quality components from reputable manufacturers in our systems," emphasizes Neugebauer. "For us, HELUKABEL ranks among the best."
Big Dutchman uses solar cables from HELUKABEL’s SOLARFLEX® series, which were specifically developed for photovoltaic applications. These halogen-free, flame-retardant cables are resistant to UV radiation, ozone, weathering, and water, making them ideal for outdoor use. "SOLARFLEX® cables are also certified according to the European standard EN 50618," says David von der Gathen, Regional Sales Manager at HELUKABEL. "This ensures they meet all operational requirements during use." To protect against bite damage from martens, mice, and other gnawing rodents, SOLARFLEX® cables are also available with optional stainless-steel protective braiding.
Big Dutchman uses NAYY-O and NAYY-J energy distribution cables to connect battery storage units and PV systems to the grid. These distribution cables are certified according to DIN VDE 0276-603, rated for voltages up to 1,000 volts, and suitable for installations underground, in water, outdoors, and in buildings. The cables feature aluminum conductors and a robust PVC outer sheath that provides the necessary protection. HELUKABEL also supplies Big Dutchman with various control, data, and bus cables.
On Site, on Time
For Neugebauer, choosing HELUKABEL as a connection technology partner came down to superior flexibility. "We get the cables we need, in the lengths we need, delivered by HELUKABEL on time and directly to the construction site. One call is all it takes!" he says. Both companies benefit from their global presence and understanding of different market and regional requirements. "For example, we also offer products with international certifications like UL approval, making them suitable for use in the U.S.," adds von der Gathen. For export-oriented manufacturers like Big Dutchman, this is a significant advantage.
Neugebauer is confident that AgriPV will continue to grow in importance—not only for Big Dutchman but across the agricultural sector. "With HELUKABEL, we have a long-term, reliable partner at our side who can supply us with the complete package of electrical connection technology—all from a single source," he says. "I look forward to continuing this successful partnership and helping shape the transition to renewable energy in agriculture together."
About Big Dutchman
Big Dutchman designs and builds feeding and housing systems for modern poultry and pig farming. Their portfolio also includes software, climate control, and lighting systems, along with air purification and waste recycling solutions. The company is further active in the fields of insect protein production and greenhouse construction.
Learn more at bigdutchman.com
