Solar Farm Security Fencing And Gates

The quick expansion of eco-friendly and low-carbon energy, along with the rising significance of renewable energy sources, has led to rapid growth in the solar industry. As the equipment used in a solar farm is often quite costly, it can become a prime target for theft and vandalism. Because of this, a strong perimeter security and access system to prevent unauthorised access is absolutely essential. At Alexandra Security, we can guide you on the most suitable solution, offer a competitive quote, and suggest a recommended installer if necessary.

Meeting UK Standards For Solar Farm Fencing

Large-scale renewable solar energy farms are becoming more common in rural areas. Due to the likely remote location, several factors must be considered when selecting a perimeter fence for a UK solar farm. Environmental standards experts at BRE have released guidelines for developing large ground-mounted solar systems. The guidelines recommend using proven security fencing, such as weld mesh, that meets British standards, as standard fencing options are unlikely to provide the necessary level of resistance to deter potential intruders.

Apart from the perimeter fence, there are access specifications for a potential solar panel farm. Given the remote nature of the sites and the cost of renewable energy production, these spaces need to withstand a high level of attack, meaning a robust physical level of security must guard access. Consequently, we suggest using twin-wire mesh gates as a minimum requirement for specifying a gate for a solar power farm. These mesh gates blend well with security fencing and are easy to integrate with CCTV systems and access control, making them an ideal choice.

Guidelines For Selecting Solar Farm Fencing

When choosing fencing and gates for solar farms in the UK, it is essential to minimise the environmental and visual impact. This typically means that a completely solid fence is unsuitable and won’t meet requirements. Welded mesh panels are preferred because they provide a higher level of visibility and can be stepped to match the ground’s contours.

Certain types of mesh, such as paladin or varimesh, are particularly suitable because of their variable-spaced apertures, making them blend even better into the surrounding area. Green is a popular powder-coated colour for metal fencing to reduce the visual impact of the perimeter barrier. Additionally, the powder coat provides a long-lasting, maintenance-free lifespan for the solar farm fence.

In some cases, agricultural land fencing and gates, such as wooden or deer fencing, have been contemplated for use around solar panels, mainly due to cost savings. However, as solar panel technology has advanced and the value of equipment stored in compounds has risen, specifiers now suggest a robust security fencing solution. That said, it is also crucial to consider wildlife movements around the solar fence or site access road.

Key Considerations for Solar Farm Perimeter Fencing

• Effective Perimeter Demarcation: The fencing should clearly outline the boundaries of the solar farm.
• Security Solutions: If security is a priority, the fence must provide strong protection against unauthorised access.
• Adaptability to Terrain: The fencing system should accommodate uneven or sloped terrain and be resilient against high winds and severe weather conditions.
• Environmental Integration: The fence design should integrate smoothly with the surrounding environment to reduce visual impact.
• Wildlife-Friendly Design: Opt for a design that prevents entry by larger animals but allows smaller creatures to pass through.
• Durability and Maintenance: The fence must endure for the solar farm’s full lifespan, require minimal maintenance, and be simple to repair if necessary.
• Compliance with British Standards: Ensure the fence complies with all applicable British Standards and certifications, detailed further in the FAQs.
• Secure Access Points: Access points should align with the fencing system to preserve overall site security.
• Scalability: The system should allow for easy expansion to support potential future growth of the solar farm.
• Cost: Evaluate the upfront cost against the level of security provided, along with long-term maintenance expenses.

Fencing For Solar Panel Farms

Below are some of the key reasons you should be considering installing security measures for solar panel farms:

• Protect animals from harm
• Prevent unauthorised access by pedestrians and vehicles
• Prevent disconnection and power outages
• Avoid expensive repairs

At Alexandra we can recommend a complete system for solar farm security installers. We also have a network of approved installers all across the UK, who are able to provide site surveys in areas near them. We can provide on-time delivery direct to site, or if you are in the south-east; collect directly from us. Contact our team today for a competitive quote on any of the mesh security systems.