An insight into Robot Milking with potential Grant Funding by Lydia Clare

In an ever-changing world where technological advancements are inevitable, the pressure to stay current or explore new horizons is palpable. Whether it's integrating AI (Artificial Intelligence) into existing farming practices or contemplating a transition away from traditional farming, the overwhelming urge not to lag behind is universal.

Over the past year, my fascination has deepened as I delved into the realm of Robotic Milking Parlours and their transformative impact on farming methods. The aversion to change is a sentiment we all share, and venturing into the unknown can be intimidating. However, I sought insights from farmers who bravely dipped their toes into these waters, curious to know if they encountered frostbite.

The surge in popularity of robotic milking systems can be attributed to advanced technology, the promise of labor savings, and the availability of grant funding. While these systems can offer efficiency and improved welfare for dairy herds, the substantial costs demand careful consideration before making an investment.

Reducing dependence on human labour is a common motivation for adopting robotic milking systems, but it's essential to recognise that competent workers are still vital for various tasks. In fact, the management of large dairy herds utilising robotic milking systems demands an even higher level of competency from employees than that required on traditional farms. The advanced technology and computer skills, coupled with essential management changes, necessitate the presence of highly skilled individuals to effectively operate a 24/7 system. The alerts are just as likely to trigger at 3pm as they are at 3am, requiring a level of employee or management expertise beyond that of a mere wage taker or 'clock watcher.' The role demands individuals who can effectively navigate dynamic situations with a heightened level of responsibility and commitment.

Contrary to the hope that robotic milkers would afford farmers a leisurely lie-in while the cows are milked, the reality is that the robots necessitate continuous oversight. Rather than viewing these robots as replacements for staff, it's more accurate to see them as a means of reallocating workers from traditional daily milking routines to a more flexible work pattern. However that is also relying on the employees buying into the change and seamlessly adapting alongside the farmer.

The setup costs are substantial, with each unit priced between £100,000 to £120,000. This investment becomes even more significant when scaled to match the size of the herd. Guidelines suggest one unit is sufficient for 65 all year round calving cows, but considerations such as the breed and yield must be factored in, affecting the overall investment.

Furthermore, the construction expenses for integrating two robots into existing sheds would start at approximately £80,000, inclusive of electrical components. However, opting for an entirely new structure to accommodate 140 cows, encompassing not only the building but also cubicles, would incur a total cost of around £280,000. This significantly contributes to the overall financial commitment. For a farm with 100 milkers, the total investment adding to an existing shed could be circa £300,000. Conversely, those contemplating the construction of a new building with cubicles might find themselves closer to a £500,000 commitment. Notably, manufacturers often advocate for the replacement of robotic units every 10 to 15 years. However, speaking to an OG robot owner reveals that their units have surpassed the 22-year mark and are still performing well. While sales representatives may lean towards encouraging upgrades, the wisdom of "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" certainly holds weight.

Running these robotic units comes with its own set of expenses, including electricity costs for pumps, cleaning cycles, and monitoring systems operating 24/7. These costs can be substantial, especially considering today's electricity prices. The operational expenses for electric consumption can be twice that of conventional milking costs for a twice-per-day milking parlour, not to mention the additional maintenance costs. Many users emphasize that a notable increase in milk yield, typically ranging from 10 to 15%, becomes imperative to offset the escalated running costs associated with the adoption of robotic milking systems. Manufacturers often provide maintenance packages, typically priced at around £6,000 per unit per year, buyers need to acknowledge the year-round, non-stop operation of these robots.

Despite the high costs, feedback from dairy farmers nationwide who have embraced this technology indicates a positive transformation in their lives. As we look ahead to a new grant window in 2024, this might be the opportune moment to explore how robotic milking can enhance productivity in your business. Yet, in a market contracting for manufacturers, prospective buyers should exercise caution, as some companies may capitalise on available grants by inflating prices. It is advisable to conduct thorough research into the costs of the specific robot brand under consideration in other EU countries. Since Brexit, significant savings can potentially be realised by purchasing from abroad, making it worthwhile to cross-compare UK prices with those of our EU neighbours on a like-for-like basis.