Herders charging with photovoltaic panels

Is grazing cattle under solar panels a good idea?

There is growing interest in grazing cattle underneath solar panels. This year, the Energy Department launched the Large Animal and Solar System Operations (LASSO) Prize, providing millions of dollars for research around solar development and cattle grazing.

What is solar grazing & agrivoltaics?

“Agrivoltaics,” or the dual use of land for solar power and agriculture, is a way for both industries to utilize the same ground. The American Solar Grazing Association, founded in 2018, estimates about 5,000 sheep are currently maintaining US solar sites.

Can solar photovoltaics reduce heat stress in dairy cows?

The combined use of solar photovoltaics and agriculture may provide farmers with an alternative source of income and reduce heat stress in dairy cows. The objective of this study was to determine the effects on grazing cattle under shade from a solar photovoltaic system.

Why do sheep walk between photovoltaic panels at Azure Sky?

Sheep walk between rows of photovoltaic panels at Azure Sky. Shade under the panels enhances the quality and quantity of forage while providing relief from heat for the livestock. Editing by Bronwen Latimer.

Will agrivoltaics succeed?

“For those that want agrivoltaics to succeed, we want to see research and incentives for solar firms to make those investments to accommodate things like solar grazing,” said Lexie Hain, director of agrivoltaics and land management at Lightsource bp and founder of the American Solar Grazing Association.

Can agrivoltaic projects be implemented in Southeast Asia?

Southeast Asia presents a rich tapestry of opportunities for implementing agrivoltaic projects as well as some challenges. The installed solar capacity in Southeast Asia has already been growing consistently. For instance, in 2023, the solar market in Southeast Asia expanded by 17% compared to 2022, with 3 GW of new installations.