AG + Solar (Agrovoltaics)

The practice of combining agriculture with solar energy production

“Agrovoltaics” refers to the practice of combining agriculture with solar energy production on the same area of land. Essentially, it involves the co-located use of land for both agriculture and solar photovoltaic power. This approach allows for the dual use of the land, maximizing its productivity.

Agrovoltaics systems can take various forms, such as placing solar panels above crops, creating a sort of “solar canopy” that provides shade for the plants. This dual-use approach can lead to increased land use efficiency, as the same piece of land can contribute to both food production and renewable energy generation. It also has the potential to mitigate some of the challenges associated with large-scale solar projects, such as land use conflicts.

Mount Morris
Agrivoltic Study

The Mount Morris Agrivoltaic Study was commissioned to assess the opportunities presented to farmers for co-locating agriculture and solar at the Morris Ridge Solar Energy Center, and explores the market for solar-raised products.  This study sets an example for innovative agriculture and economic growth.

Solar Development Guidebook

This guidebook is designed to provide insights and best practices associated with low-impact solar development. This guidebook can assist solar developers, state agencies, and other interested parties in siting, designing, installing, and operating low-impact solar development projects.

 

Farmer's Guide
to Solar

The InSPIRE project designed this guidebook to provide insights and best practices associated with low-impact solar development. It can assist solar developers, state agencies, and other interested parties in siting, designing, installing, and operating low-impact solar development projects.