Morrisons has published the second in a series of independent guidebooks aimed at offering advice to UK farmers interested in utilising their land to develop renewable energy projects.

Energy in Farming includes case studies of wind, solar, solar thermal, hydro, heat pump, biomass boiler and anaerobic digestion projects across the farming spectrum, with sections for dairy, poultry, arable and red meat producers.

While offering advice and information for those looking to invest in renewable energy, the guidebook also looks at the grants available, practicality of installation, CO2 reductions and the cost and energy savings available to the farm business.

Morrisons’ Agriculture Manager, Louise Welsh, said: “The very positive feedback we received on our first report into renewable energy persuaded us to see what more we could do to help in this area. The result is a new guidebook, once again independently written, that can help farmers reduce both their costs and their carbon footprint.

“Farmers will be able to see what others have done and learn from any mistakes that have been made.

“By looking at the likely cost savings they should be able to see whether or not it’s worth considering the investment on their own farm.”

The book is part of ongoing research funded by the Morrisons Farming Programme. Copies are distributed free-of-charge to producers who supply the retailer.

The publication has been launched to coincide with the recent feed-in tariff and Renewable Obligation reviews. The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has now published the Renewable Obligation banding rates for 2013 to 2017. Under the new arrangements solar PV will see support remain at 2ROCs until April 2013, pending a separate consultation on what rates should be introduced thereafter.