Harvesting Energy: A New Approach

Agriculture and energy development are often thought of as competing land uses, but ARS researchers in Las Cruces, NM, are working on a new concept called agrivoltaics that could provide a win-win for everyone involved. Rather than land being used for growing crops and raising livestock or hosting solar panels, the researchers believe it can be used for both, with panels situated several feet off the ground. At that height, they can provide shade for both plants and animals, improving animal health and shielding plants from the harshest sun. At the same time, the presence of plants underneath could also help the panels to function more efficiently. Does the future of farming include harvesting solar rays along with crops? Find out and learn more about this exciting new approach.