Agriculture sector explores smart energy solutions at Royal Welsh Show
Agriculture sector explores smart energy solutions at Royal Welsh Show
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Innovative ways to harness sustainable energy in farming were at the centre of discussions at the Royal Welsh Show, as industry leaders, government officials and researchers came together to examine how agriculture can play a bigger role in Wales’ net zero transition.
The stakeholder session, hosted by Growing Mid Wales on 21 July, showcased progress made through the Welsh Government’s Whole Systems Research and Innovation for Decarbonisation (WSRID) challenge fund. The initiative is supporting projects designed to reduce agricultural emissions while strengthening rural economies.
Five feasibility projects across Mid Wales have received WSRID funding, with two highlighted at the event: Lafan & Coleg Sir Gâr, which is exploring regional slurry treatment hubs using anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis, and Water to Water, which is investigating how Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES) can help dairy farms achieve energy self-sufficiency.
“The transition to net zero must work for rural areas,” said Councillor Jake Berriman, Leader of Powys County Council, and Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, Joint Chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board. “Through Growing Mid Wales, we’re building the partnerships and momentum needed to unlock sustainable growth. These feasibility projects show what’s possible when we match innovation with local insight and ambition.
“The Welsh Government’s recent announcement on the Sustainable Farming Scheme reinforces this direction – emphasising a future of farming that values environmental resilience, clean energy, and local collaboration,” they added.
John Owen of Lafan said: “It’s essential farmers are supported to manage resources in a smarter, cleaner way. These technologies could reduce emissions, cut costs, and even open up new income streams—all while helping safeguard the environment for future generations.”
The session drew representatives from across the agricultural supply chain, alongside policymakers and academics, highlighting growing interest in how energy innovation can drive sustainable regional growth in Mid Wales.
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