By Blake Jackson
Information shared by Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) shows that farmers across the United States are finding that solar power and farming can work together. This system, known as agrivoltaics, combines agriculture with solar panels to create new income, protect farmland, and improve energy security.
Many farms face low profit margins and rising costs. Agrivoltaics gives landowners another source of income through solar leases or electricity savings. In Massachusetts, farmer Joe Czajkowski said solar panels above his fields helped lower costs and created added income while allowing him to continue growing crops.
“I would rather see the power come from your neighboring farmer. The money stays right in the neighborhood. And that’s a good thing, too.” – Joe Czajkowski
Farmers say this added revenue can help keep farms operating during difficult years. Solar projects may also reduce pressure to sell farmland for housing or commercial development.
In Virginia, the Piedmont Environmental Council developed an agrivoltaics project that combines vegetable production with solar energy. The farm donates food to local communities while showing how renewable energy and farming can share the same land.
“Agriculture is really important in Virginia. We need to make sure that we develop these projects in a way that listens to that community and incorporates their concerns, and they have to be at the table.” – Ashish Kapoor
Agrivoltaics is also creating opportunities for new farmers. In Kentucky, Katie and Brad Carothers built a sheep grazing business on solar sites. Their sheep manage grass under panels while creating a full-time farming business.
Research and farmer experience show that some crops and grasses perform well under solar panels. Shade can lower heat stress, hold moisture in the soil, and extend grazing seasons for livestock. Some vegetables and fruits may also grow successfully in these conditions.
Communities continue discussing policy, land use, and public acceptance, but interest is growing. Supporters believe agrivoltaics can help meet future energy needs while keeping farms productive.
Agrivoltaics may not solve every challenge, but it offers farmers a practical way to earn income, protect land, and build a stronger future.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Kentucky, Crops, Livestock, Sustainable Agriculture