Solar panels convert sunlight into energy that farmers can use for powering essential tools, equipment and more on the farm. Not only does this save farmers money on expenses but it also increases their profits.
Solar energy not only eliminates the need for fossil fuels, but it also boosts yields and protects crops from harsh weather conditions. These advantages make solar an attractive option for many farmers.
1. Solar panels Reduced Energy Costs
Energy costs associated with running farm machinery, water pumps, heating and lighting can be quite high. Therefore, many farmers are seeking ways to reduce their energy consumption.
Solar panel installations are an affordable solution for agricultural operations, enabling them to generate their own electricity. Not only does this save farmers money from utility companies, but they can also earn income by selling any excess power back onto the grid.
Furthermore, installing solar panels on agricultural land can enhance pollinator habitat and reduce emissions. Farmers who opt to switch to solar power are eligible for tax credits and grants that support this transition.
2. Solar panels Increased Yields
One of the primary advantages associated with solar panel installations for agricultural operations is increased yields. Studies have demonstrated that crop production increases when sunlight penetrates through shade-tolerant plants grown underneath solar panels.
Research suggests that co-locating solar and shade-tolerant crops is a cost-effective way for farmers to maximize energy production, water efficiency and crop output without needing expensive gas-powered mowers or chemical weedkillers.
Additionally, farms that generate excess electricity can often resell it back to the grid at a profit. This provides farmers with an impressive return on investment, making solar an advantageous decision for their operation.
3. Reduced Environmental Impact
Solar panel installations are not only an excellent way to reduce your energy bills, but they have a substantial environmental benefit as well. Not only do they eliminate fossil fuels but they reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other pollutants as well.
Agriculture operations can particularly benefit from solar panels, as it reduces CO2 emissions into the environment while relieving pressure on natural resources. Furthermore, solar panels improve soil health and enhance nutrient cycling.
Land impacts associated with utility-scale solar facilities can be minimized by placing them in lower quality locations such as brownfields or abandoned mining lands, along transportation and transmission corridors (Bergan & Braun 2019). Low-impact solar development also mitigates impacts from solar farms by planting native vegetation which helps retain topsoil health over time.
4. Increased Property Value
Solar panels can increase the value of your agricultural operations and land. Unfortunately, this benefit may not be available to all farms.
Solar leases differ from oil and gas projects in that they are long-term (usually 20 years) and provide fixed rental payments instead of royalties, reducing farmers’ economic risk.
Furthermore, solar farms can generate income and taxes for property owners and counties that far surpass what would be obtained through agriculture rentals.
Some neighbors worry that a solar farm will negatively affect their residential properties. This is known as external obsolescence, and it could result in the decrease of value for nearby properties.
5. Increased Sustainability
Farms, ranches, and other agricultural operations need electricity to run tractors, harvesters, and other machinery. Being able to access free energy from the sun helps them cut costs and reduce their carbon footprint.
Solar is not the only renewable energy source available, but it has become increasingly popular for agricultural operations due to its ability to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, reduce energy costs and generate dependable income by selling excess electricity produced.
Solar energy can be utilized for many agro-affairs and agricultural activities, helping to protect the environment, reduce operating costs, and boost property values. Furthermore, it conserves water and minimizes energy waste in the field.