Exciting developments in the domain of agrivoltaics have emerged with the initiation of the Solar + Farms Survey, spearheaded by the Solar and Storage Industries Institute (SI2). This research effort is pioneering a path towards understanding the integration of solar energy production with agricultural practices, a concept that allows for dual land usage — supporting both energy generation and farming needs.
Intersecting Solar Power with Agriculture
The research, part of the Far-reaching Agrivoltaic Research for Megawatt Scale (FARMS) program, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, unites key industry players. Collaborators include the National Farmers Union, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, and the Solar Energy Industries Association. Their collective aim is to elucidate the challenges and potential roadblocks that farmers, solar developers, and electric utilities may face when implementing agrivoltaics.
Catalyzing the Clean Energy Transition in the Agricultural Sphere
Farmers play a pivotal role in the evolution of the energy landscape. Their input is vital for sculpting a future where clean energy and agriculture thrive in tandem. “The agricultural industry’s input is crucial to leading the clean energy transition,” noted David Gahl, SI2’s executive director. His enthusiasm for the collaborative potential between solar energy and agriculture is palpable as he eyes the survey results to forge new pathways in clean energy deployment.
Highlighting the complexities of solar siting in clean energy initiatives, Shawn Rumery of SEIA points out the necessity of a deeper comprehension of the obstacles stakeholders confront. The insights gleaned from the survey will lay the groundwork for crafting actionable solutions.
A Call for Participation and Engagement
The Solar + Farms Survey represents a unique opportunity for survey participants to voice their experiences and concerns. It is not just an inquiry but an invitation to catalyze action in the agrivoltaics space. Respondents not only contribute to a significant research effort but also stand a chance to win a monetary incentive. With an April 9, 2024 deadline, the survey beckons a broad spectrum of stakeholders to pitch in their valuable perspectives.
As agrivoltaics continues to grow and demonstrate its merits, the Solar + Farms Survey will play a crucial part in nurturing this synergy between solar energy and farming, potentially reshaping the sustainability narrative for future generations.
