Farming business goes green with five-figure funding package

An East Yorkshire farm has secured a five-figure funding package from HSBC UK to invest in sustainable technology.

Gordon and Jill Hawcroft, with assistance from their son David, have operated their arable and poultry farm in Holme on Spalding Moor for over 40 years.

With the backing of HSBC UK funding, the family has added a 100-kilowatt solar panelling system to four of its ecologically friendly poultry sheds.

The eco-sheds, which span 105,000 sq ft and house more than 215,000 chickens, will now be completely powered by the solar panels. The new system is expected to cut overall electricity costs for the farm by 20%, enabling the farm to increase profitability.

Gordon Hawcroft said: “Farming standards are higher than they’ve ever been and sustainability is now a key consideration across the industry.

“This solar panel purchase will allow our business to continue to run in line with our eco-friendly ethos, building on our desire to operate a responsible and sustainable long-term business.

“We’re delighted that the panels will allow the poultry farm to generate enough power to run completely self-sufficiently.”

Rob Mayson, agriculture relationship manager, HSBC UK, added: “The Hawcroft’s farm has been successful for many years due to careful management and the commitment of the family.

“This latest investment into sustainable solar energy shows that the farm is taking big steps to become as eco-friendly as possible.”