Agricultural Solar
Improve farming while harvesting the sun!
Solar benefits for farm land!
Benefits to solar developers include:
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Reduced installation costs – The use of previously tilled agricultural may prevent the need for expensive grading to flatten land to a usable level.
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Reduced upfront risk – Geotechnical risks can increase the cost of solar installation due to increased testing needs. Previously tilled agricultural land was identified as the “least risk option” during a series of surveys with solar installers.
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Reduced legal risk – By using previously disturbed land, solar installers can reduce the risk of up front litigation during the environmental review process.
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Potential increase PV performance – Vegetation under modules can contribute to lower soil temperatures and increase solar performance.
Benefits to agricultural land managers include:
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Reduced electricity costs
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Diversification of the revenue stream
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Increased ability to install high-value, shade- resistant crops for new markets
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Marketing opportunity to sustainability-mindful audience
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Ability to maintain crop production during solar generation
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Allow for nutrient and land recharge of degraded lands.
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Potential for water use reduction
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Potential to extend growing seasons
