In the wake of a February ice storm that left roads obstructed, Virginia farmer Jess Gray was relieved to find her sheep safe and thriving near a solar farm. The solar panels provided shelter during the storm, showcasing the benefits of agrivoltaics—a practice combining agriculture with solar energy. Farmers like Gray have found that not only do livestock thrive in these environments, but there are also economic advantages, as grazing on solar sites contributes to environmental goals while providing additional income for farmers.
Gray operates Gray’s LAMBscaping, which utilizes approximately 4,000 acres of solar energy sites for grazing, allowing her flock of sheep to grow from 30 to around 1,300 since the business started four years ago. She notes that the panels not only protect the sheep from the elements but may also enhance the quality of their wool by providing a less stressful environment. In 2024, livestock were grazed across more than 130,000 acres of solar farms throughout the United States, indicating a growing trend in agrivoltaics.
Despite the advantages, agrivoltaic systems present challenges. Some solar farms lack adequate water supplies for livestock, necessitating additional efforts from farmers. While sheep are commonly used in these programs, certain farms also successfully graze cattle under raised panels. Moreover, crops can benefit from the shade provided by solar installations, but determining optimal configurations for different crops remains an ongoing area of research.
Studies have shown varied results regarding crop yield under solar panels. In Massachusetts, a three-year observation revealed that while some crops performed well under solar shading during hot, dry conditions, wetter years saw reduced yields due to potential over-shading. Ongoing research, like a current Iowa State University study, aims to better understand how different configurations and environments impact crop growth and efficiency.
Even with the potential for advantages, agrivoltaic projects are not without socio-political complexities. Landowners may experience tension when solar panels introduce income disparities. Advocates argue that agrivoltaics can efficiently use space for both energy production and food growth, offering vital opportunities for rural communities, reminiscent of past infrastructural booms like the railroads. Promoting these innovative farming practices, supporters hope to cultivate sustainable solutions for agriculture and renewable energy alike.