Solar Farms Employ Sheep Across 27 States

The solar industry is experiencing rapid growth, with innovative practices emerging such as solar grazing, where sheep are employed to manage vegetation on solar farms. In Texas, SB Energy operates one of the largest solar projects in the U.S., utilizing around 3,000 sheep to effectively maintain its 4,000-acre site. This approach not only enhances land use efficiency by combining solar energy production with agriculture but also supports the struggling sheep and wool market. The American Solar Grazing Association reports over 60 solar grazing projects across 27 states, highlighting a trend toward agrivoltaics. Meanwhile, in Monroe County, New York, a workshop is being offered to educate farmers and landowners on the implications of leasing land for solar development, featuring expert insights on critical issues. This growing intersection of agriculture and renewable energy reflects a broader shift towards sustainable land use practices.