Solar Farm Multifunctional Uses. A Smart Solution for Agriculture

In California’s dry Central Valley, farmers are implementing solar farm multifunctional strategies to earn money and save water. Traditionally, these farmers have relied on irrigation to water crops. Many farmers are electing to repurpose part of their land use to solar farming. Rather than planting crops on all their land, they’re installing solar panels to harness the sun’s energy.

This switch has proven beneficial for the environment by reducing groundwater usage. Some farmers are even growing crops underneath the panels, which offer protection from the harsh midday sun, preventing vegetation overexposure. This allows plants to thrive in a less stressful environment, improving yields. On the other hand, others have left the land beneath the panels wild, providing a habitat for bees and other pollinators.

A recent study on solar farming in California’s Central Valley reveals just how lucrative the practice of solar farm multifunctional strategies is compared to traditional farming methods. Farmers who converted part of their land to solar farming earned around $124,000 per hectare, 2.47 acres, each year. This is a significant added revenue stream compared to the usual income from crop production. This income comes from using solar energy to power farm operations and selling the excess energy back to the power companies.

The potential for profit and power generation is significant. The electricity generated by solar farms in the Central Valley could power about 500,000 households annually. In addition, the water savings from this energy shift could provide enough water to support around 27 million people every year. With such financial and environmental benefits, even converting a small portion of land, say 1 or 2 acres to solar farming can provide the financial stability needed to support a farmer’s entire operation.

Balancing Food and Solar Energy Generation

California’s Central Valley grows a large portion of the country’s fruits and vegetables, but water shortages are a growing issue. Farmers are turning to solar farm multifunctional practices to use less water and keep their land productive. Taking land out of crop production results in growing less food. To offset the crop production loss other farms in other regions can help cover the shortfall.

Some farmers grow shade-loving crops like lettuce and berries under the panels. As a result, this saves water and through plant transpiration the panels are cooled increasing operational performance. Other farmers let livestock such as sheep graze under the panels. Animal manure boosts soil health, increases plant productivity, and provides habit for pollinators like bees and other beneficial insects.

ECN Supports Eco-Friendly Agriculture with Solar Farming Technologies

EcoCentricNow LLC (ECN) commits to promoting solar sustainability through its selection of solar powered products. Our products are designed to efficiently capture and use solar energy. Ultimately, our aim is to help customers participate in a greener, more sustainable planet. To learn more about our solar lanterns and other eco-friendly solutions, reach out to EcoCentricNow LLC today.

References
Impacts of agrisolar co-location on the food–energy–water nexus and economic security
Farmers are making bank harvesting a new crop: Solar energy
Solar Film Technology: A Breakthrough in Clean Energy Flexibility
Solar Power Revolution. A Paradigm Shift in Renewable Energy Tech.