Case Study – Balmer Dairy Farm
138% Consumption Offset
Overview – Elizabethtown, PA
The Challenge
High, unpredictable operating costs associated with running essential dairy equipment (milking parlor, cooling, ventilation) using conventional grid electricity.
The Trifecta Solution
A custom-designed, roof-mounted commercial solar photovoltaic system engineered for maximum energy offset and financial return.
Key System Specifications
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47.85 kW DC
System Size, composed of 87 high-efficiency 550 Watt panels.
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62,038 kWh
Estimated Annual Production of clean energy.
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138%
Consumption Offset, ensuring the farm generates a surplus of energy each year.
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The Energy Challenge
Dairy farming is a constant, energy-intensive operation. The Elizabethtown farm required reliable, 24/7 power for critical systems, including milk cooling tanks, vacuum pumps, and feeding equipment. Rising electricity rates in Central Pennsylvania represented a growing operational expense and a significant risk to the farm’s bottom line. The owners sought a long-term strategy to lock in energy costs, reduce their environmental footprint, and generate a new revenue stream through net metering.
The Trifecta Solar Solution
Trifecta Solar designed and installed a comprehensive solar solution utilizing the large, unshaded roof space available across the main barn structures. The arrays were positioned for optimal solar exposure throughout the day, ensuring the annual production goal was met. Designing the system for a 138% consumption offset allows the farm to cover all existing electricity use and generate a surplus. This surplus energy is fed back into the grid, earning valuable net metering and SREC credits to offset future electricity needs and provide additional income.
Due Diligence & Community Consideration
To ensure the project integrated seamlessly with the rural environment and respected neighboring properties, Trifecta Solar completed a detailed Glare Analysis. This study confirmed that the low-reflectivity panels and optimal tilt angles, combined with the setback from the property line, eliminated any potential for uncomfortable or hazardous glare to surrounding homes or nearby roads throughout the year. This proactive measure ensured a smooth permitting process and demonstrated the farm’s commitment to being a responsible neighbor.
Results & Impact
The system’s performance metrics demonstrate a rapid path to energy self-sufficiency and substantial financial savings, validating the farm owner’s investment decision.
“The solar installation has completely changed our operational costs. Knowing that our most critical equipment is powered by the sun, and we’re saving over $600 a month, gives us peace of mind and financial certainty we’ve never had before.”
— Kevin Balmer, Elizabethtown, PA
The Elizabethtown Dairy Farm case study proves that solar power is not just a sustainability measure, but a critical, value-generating asset for the modern agricultural enterprise.
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