Agrivoltaics:
The Only Way to Solar Farm
No one wants to see family farms bought out by corporations so they can put up solar farms.
98% of U.S. farms are operated by families – individuals, family partnerships, or family corporations.
There’s a way farmers can take advantage of solar incentives without compromising the integrity of their farm.
We believe Agrivoltaics is the solution.
What is Agrivoltaics
Agrivoltaics is the practice of using farm land for both solar production and livestock or crops.
The advantages of agrivoltaics in crop planting are a win-win for both crop yield and solar performance.
Panels can be placed to give crops optimal sun exposer while also protecting them from the heat and wind. Meanwhile, studies have shown that panels placed above crops yield 10% more electricity
We Need Farmers
In the next 3 decades, agriculture production will need to increase by 70% to feed the world’s population.
Over 50,000 jobs in agriculture are available per year, but there aren’t enough qualified graduates to fill the vacancies.
We need to preserve our farmland not fill it with solar panels.
Rooftop Solar
A study in 2018 estimated that there were 8 billion square meters of usable roof space in the U.S. If those roofs were covered in solar panels they would produce over 1400 terawatts of electricity. About 40% of the total electricity sold in the U.S. However, this is an old study.
Solar panels have gotten better and cheaper since 2018.
This study only took into account rooftop solar, not parking shade structures. This data clearly proves that we don’t need to buy out farms. We need homeowners and businesses to invest in rooftop solar and solar shade structures for parks and parking lots.
Solar Profitability
Solar farm projects will fetch property owners anywhere between $22,500 to $42,500 per acre and produce an average of 357KWh of energy a year per acre.
This can have a huge impact on the lives of the farmers as well as their communities
If you want to know how your farm can take advantage of solar, Hirst Solar Consulting will build you a custom solar design that complements your agricultural needs. We believe that solar is a great option for farms and ranches, and if done properly, will not only maintain the integrity of your business but enhance it. Don’t let corporations benefit from what’s already yours. Contact Hirst Solar Consulting today!
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