Install solar power on rural land

Should solar energy be located on farmland?

Locating solar energy on farmland could significantly increase the available land for solar development, while maintaining land in agricultural production and expanding economic opportunities for farmers, rural communities, and the solar industry.

Why should rural communities switch to solar energy?

By transitioning to solar energy, rural communities can reduce their dependence on fossil fuels, lower energy costs, and improve energy access. This shift also contributes to building resilience against natural disasters and mitigating the effects of climate change.

How can we support solar power projects in rural areas?

Non-profit organizations and international aid agencies can offer donor funding to support solar power projects in rural areas. Microfinance, through offering micro-loans specifically for solar power installations, can enable rural residents to access funding for solar systems.

Will agricultural land be used for solar energy?

Agricultural land in the U.S. has the technical potential to provide 27 terawatts of solar energy capacity. This is a quarter of the total U.S. solar energy capacity of 115 TW. Only 0.3% of farmland is expected to be used for solar energy by 2035. Will using land for solar panels drive up the price of food?

How can solar power improve rural resilience?

By embracing solar power solutions such as solar home systems, mini-grids, and solar-powered water pumps, rural areas can enhance energy security, reduce pollution, and build a resilient future. Solar power offers a cost-effective and long-term solution for rural resilience in terms of energy access. Here are some reasons why:

How can farmers benefit from solar energy?

Farmers can benefit from solar energy in several ways—by leasing farmland for solar; installing a solar system on a house, barn, or other building; or through agrivoltaics. Agrivoltaics is defined as agriculture, such as crop production, livestock grazing, and pollinator habitat, located underneath solar panels and/or between rows of solar panels.