Media Release: 28 May 2025

Farmlands FLEX: Rural Energy Revolution Begins

In the ag sector, input costs can make or break a season, and electricity is one of the largest expenses. Farmlands is partnering with Blackcurrent to change that equation with Farmlands FLEX, a joint solar and technology venture that puts the power in farmers' hands.

Much more than solar panels, Farmlands FLEX delivers intelligent microgrid systems custom-built and managed to meet the demands of working farms and orchards. The system is designed to create energy independence for farmers and growers – slashing power bills, keeping critical operations running during outages and even generating a long-term income source.

"Rising energy costs are a huge concern for our customers," says Farmlands CEO Tanya Houghton. "Finding solutions for on-farm energy needs have been a part of Farmlands’ strategy for a long time.”

To better support the profitability and productivity of farmers and growers, Farmlands provides five-year electricity pricing certainty through its partnership with Meridian, and its three-year-old fuel joint-venture, Fern Energy, is now the country’s largest rural bulk fuel provider.

Farmlands FLEX is set to truly transform on-farm energy sourcing and management as another key cornerstone of Farmlands’ total offering.

"The on-farm applications for Farmlands FLEX are wide-reaching - the 5am dairy shed power surge, keeping irrigation running during blackouts and protecting frost fans when electricity isn’t available or there’s an outage. Farmlands FLEX address real farm challenges," says Tanya.

Farmlands FLEX is set for a major launch at National Fieldays. The Farmlands and Farmlands FLEX team are ready now to talk about the benefits and start working with farmers and growers on a personalised plan.

The immediate benefits of Farmland FLEX are:

• Up to 40% reduction in electricity costs
• Operational continuity during power outages
• Conversion of power expenses into a valuable on-farm asset
• New revenue potential from selling surplus energy

The results are set to be impressive. It’s common for customers to be looking to save several thousand dollars per month – one recent quote estimated an approximate $55,000 annual electricity saving.

Tanya adds, “No need to wait for Fieldays, grab your power bill and call us to start talking about the options for your farm or orchard.”

To find out more, visit flexenergy.co.nz. Customers interested in Farmlands FLEX and wanting to start a conversation now can express their interest here