“The core hardware was in place, but feedback was missing. Without real-time insights into how the system performed, decisions were delayed, optimisation was limited, and the full benefit of the installation could not be realised.”

The Solution

Real-time monitoring that delivers control

To close the visibility gap, EM and Spilhaus added Polar Monitoring to the existing Delta hybrid system. This gave the farm access to real-time data on energy performance without needing to replace or reconfigure the core pumping equipment.

The solution relied on two key measurements:

• Total pump consumption, reported directly by the Delta variable-speed drives
• Eskom energy draw, measured using Lovato DMG meters installed in the existing pump cabinet

By combining these values in the Polar cloud dashboard, the system could calculate the contribution of solar power at any given time. This gave the farmer clear visibility into how the system was performing during peak sun hours, overcast periods, and early mornings when grid usage typically increases.

With accurate, time-based data, the farm was able to:

• Confirm when irrigation ran entirely on solar
• Track energy savings and understand actual return on investment
• Compare system performance across different seasons and schedules
• Make informed decisions about panel expansion or seasonal reallocation

“Once we had Polar set up with the right metering, we could prove exactly what solar was contributing. That changed the conversation around ROI.” ― William Cameron, EM

The Polar platform also enabled remote access, allowing the Spilhaus team to manage the system from off site. A SIM-enabled gateway provided a secure connection, giving engineers the ability to view system status, adjust parameters, and support the client without the need to be on-site. This reduced downtime, improved response times, and made ongoing support more efficient.

All components were installed within the existing cabinet, keeping the upgrade simple and scalable. The modular design leaves room to expand monitoring in future, whether to support additional pumps, loads, or solar assets

Implementation and results

The rollout followed a phased, low-disruption approach. After validating Polar’s capabilities on a comparable installation, EM worked with Spilhaus to integrate the platform into the existing Delta hybrid drive system at Doornrivier. Energy meters were added to capture Eskom draw, and the Polar interface was configured to visualise energy trends across different operating conditions.

All hardware was installed within the existing pump cabinet. There was no need to replace inverters or modify the drive configuration. The system was commissioned alongside the 44kWp PV array supporting two 22kW irrigation pumps. Within the first few operating cycles, clear trends in solar contribution, Eskom usage, and seasonal load variability began to emerge.

Immediate outcomes

• Full visibility into solar and grid energy split
• Remote access for Spilhaus and EM support teams
• Up to 50% reduction in Eskom consumption during peak solar hours
• Live feedback to align irrigation schedules with PV availability
• Reliable performance data to support future planning and expansion

Broader operational impact

Beyond the initial scope, the system helped reshape how the farm managed irrigation. With detailed visibility into daily performance, the team restructured irrigation schedules to prioritise daytime pumping. This reduced reliance on Eskom and enabled more efficient use of solar energy when generation was at its peak.