Agricultural voltaic systems that combine solar energy and agriculture are attracting attention with the sheep grazing model. According to research, the business model of grazing sheep under solar panels is a profitable alternative for farmers, offering a return on investment (ROI) ranging from 16% to 43%. It is particularly attractive because it is low-cost compared to traditional mowing methods and keeps farmland in active use.
Research by Western University in Canada and Lara Costa examined two different business models for sheep farming: The model of raising sheep from birth and the model of buying and raising lambs at auction. In both models, the main sources of income are the sale of lamb meat and the provision of grazing services in solar installations.
According to the study, solar grazing farmers earn an average of $194 per acre per year. However, this income model offers different advantages depending on the type of sheep farming. While the sheep-rearing model from birth requires caring for mature sheep year-round, the auction model is seasonal, eliminating off-season maintenance costs. Therefore, while the auction model offers a higher return on investment, the sheep farming model provides a more sustainable profitability.
The combination of solar panels and sheep grazing is not only economically advantageous but also ecologically beneficial. Research shows that solar panels can increase vegetation cover in arid regions by up to 90% by providing shade. This not only protects pasture land but also provides better nutrition for livestock.
As climate change continues to challenge farmland, agricultural voltaic systems offer new opportunities for farmers by combining energy production and animal husbandry. Offering a higher return on investment compared to traditional sheep farming, this model also stands out as an economically and environmentally sustainable option for solar farms.