Innovative approaches to sustainable energy in agriculture were explored at the Royal Welsh Show during a stakeholder session hosted by Growing Mid Wales.
The session spotlighted progress supported through the Welsh Government’s Whole Systems Research and Innovation for Decarbonisation (WSRID) challenge fund, which is helping identify practical ways to reduce agricultural emissions while supporting rural economies. It also provided a valuable platform for discussion on how energy can drive sustainable regional growth in Mid Wales.
Five feasibility projects across the region received WSRID funding. Two of these – Lafan & Coleg Sir Gâr and Water to Water –were featured at the event, sharing early insights into how farms can contribute to Wales’ net zero goals through clean energy, better resource management, and circular economy solutions.
Lafan’s work explored the potential of regional slurry treatment hubs using anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis, while Water to Water focused on how Smart Local Energy Systems (SLES) can help dairy farms become energy self-sufficient.
Stakeholders attending the session included representatives from government, industry, academia, and agriculture.
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, said:
“The transition to net zero must work for rural areas. 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.”
John Owen of Lafan added:
“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.”
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