Solar Grazing Expands Across 27 States, Boosting Sheep Farming

The innovative practice of solar grazing is gaining traction in Texas, where sheep are employed to manage grass growth beneath solar panels, reducing the need for gas-powered mowers. This collaboration supports both the booming solar industry and struggling local sheep farmers, providing a sustainable solution for land management. With over 60 solar grazing projects across 27 states, agrivoltaics is seen as a promising method to simultaneously produce renewable energy and maintain livestock. Texas, facing a recent decline in sheep populations, has found a silver lining in this practice, as sheep farmers like JR Howard have expanded their operations significantly. The synergy between solar energy production and agriculture is touted as a step toward enhancing food security and promoting cleaner energy practices. However, further research is needed to assess the long-term impacts of this dual-use strategy on land and soil health.