By Andi Anderson
A large-scale research project in Ohio is investigating how solar farms and agricultural activities can coexist effectively. The project is based at the Madison County solar farm, one of North America's largest agrivoltaics research sites. Spread over 1,900 acres, the 180 MW Madison Fields project aims to explore farming between photovoltaic solar panels.
As farmers lease land for solar arrays to diversify income, this practice may help them maximize earnings and address opposition from critics concerned about losing prime farmland. Solar projects handle large land areas at once, while urban sprawl gradually consumes farmland, making it crucial to balance energy production with agriculture.
Savion, a Shell subsidiary, developed the Madison Fields project, which began commercial operation on July 11, with Amazon as its long-term energy buyer. Ohio State University scientists and Savion's Between the Rows subsidiary are leading the research.
The project focuses on identifying crops suitable for large-scale solar farms. Forage crops like alfalfa and hay show promise due to their scalability and economic potential.
Research at Madison Fields, funded by a $1.6 million Department of Energy grant, will examine crop performance in sun and shade conditions. Initial findings suggest hay and alfalfa can grow well between solar panels.
Further studies will test these results on a larger scale to establish best practices for agrivoltaics.
Complementary grazing with sheep is another area of exploration. Sheep can help manage vegetation under and around solar panels while providing meat, milk, and fiber. Researchers aim to determine optimal grazing rates and assess sheep health in this setting.
The project also examines farm equipment compatibility with solar panels. Farmers need to navigate between rows of panels with their machinery, and some may need specialized equipment. Ensuring adequate turning space and avoiding obstructions are crucial for seamless operations.
Precision agriculture, utilizing technology and data, is another focus area. Researchers aim to determine which technologies work best for crops grown between solar panels. The goal is to integrate agriculture with solar projects effectively.
Economics and business models for combining farming with solar projects must also be addressed.
Farmers need to profit from these ventures for agrivoltaics to be successful. The research aims to develop best practices that benefit both agriculture and energy production.
The Madison Fields project represents a significant step toward understanding and implementing agrivoltaics, potentially transforming the future of farming and renewable energy.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Ohio, Energy, Sustainable Agriculture