It can mean growing flowers for butterflies and bees, planting food crops around the solar panels or raising sheep for meat.in Texas. The state produces more solar power than any other except California. And although the panels emit no pollution, they are often built on former agricultural land, which can
Terry grew up on a nearby cattle ranch where his dad worked. As a kid, Terry raised his own animals too, learning to spot a sick one’s runny nose or eyes. He jokes that he’s been riding horses since he was in his mother’s womb. “Every single square inch of land is owned by, cherished, protected by someone,” Macknick said. “People want to find a way in which we can make good use of the land.”383 sites in the country where solar companies added an agricultural use. Some states offer financial incentives for agrivoltaic projects or give them priority to connect to the grid, Macknick said. Texas electricity regulators don’t.
Agrivoltaics, the blending of renewable energy and agriculture, is becoming increasingly common in Texas and nationwide.“We recognize that decarbonization is important, and that climate change is impacting farmers and their bottom lines already,” Levy said. “If done well, solar can contribute to supporting farm viability.”
Then they talked to a neighbor who raised sheep and also agreed to lease his land for solar. Intrigued, Stoffels bought “Storey’s Guide to Raising Sheep” at a Tractor Supply store and read it every morning after her quiet time with the Bible. Stoffels now cares for hundreds of sheep that graze on part of the solar project’s 1,350 acres.