Renewable energy diversification: Considerations for farm business resilience. (December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Morris, Wyn; Bowen, Robert
• Is Part Of: Journal of rural studies. Volume 80(2020)
• Page Start: 380
• Page End: 390
• Publication Date: 2020-12
• Subjects: Green economy -- Farm diversification -- Agribusiness -- Entrepreneurship -- Renewable energy; Sociology, Rural -- Periodicals; Country life -- Periodicals; Rural development -- Periodicals; Land use, Rural -- Planning -- Periodicals; Rural conditions -- Periodicals; Sociologie rurale -- Périodiques; Vie rurale -- Périodiques; Développement rural -- Périodiques; Sol, Utilisation agricole du -- Planification -- Périodiques; Conditions rurales -- Périodiques; Country life; Land use, Rural -- Planning; Rural conditions; Rural development; Sociology, Rural; Periodicals; 307.72
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jrurstud.2020.10.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0743-0167

Abstract

Abstract: With a varied landscape, Wales is resource rich in terms of wind and water and a suitable location to develop many different forms of sustainable energy. Whilst farm businesses face increasing challenges in terms of economic stability and traditional production methods, this paper considers the role of renewable energy production as a form of diversification. The study adopts mixed methods as a means of undertaking an in-depth investigation into the role of renewable energy generation in supporting agribusinesses in Wales. Initially a questionnaire obtained 118 responses from farmers in Wales. Subsequently, 15 follow-up semi-structured interviews with farmers were conducted to further investigate the issues from the initial questionnaire. The theoretical contribution of this paper is a segmentation of farmer businesses which allows for distinctions to be made of different attitudes to off-farm income and the adoption of renewable energy sources. Five farm types were identified, varying in relation to farm characteristics, attitudes to diversification, access to renewable energy and resource allocation. These farm types highlight the need for specific policies towards facilitating the increase in renewable energy along with sustaining farming incomes. Furthermore the research provides valuable information to the farming industry on opportunities in renewable energy production, particularly for farmers and farm businesses who are considering diversification strategies. Highlights: Farmers face increasingly challenging times and rely on diversification activities to supplement their farm activities. Renewable energy production represents an opportunity for diversification in rural spaces, such as Wales. Renewable energy production is a significant investment, but this could reduce costs and generate income on the farm. Welsh farm businesses are reactive to technology adoption, therefore support is essential in facilitating adoption. Farmers could play a leading role in supporting rural community projects to develop renewable energy production.