Solar energy isn’t just for Silicon Valley tech startups. Almost any business can benefit from a solar panel installation, including agricultural businesses. More and more American farmers have integrated ground mounted solar energy systems into their farmland in the last decade. These “agroPV” projects are great for farms because the solar modules serve a dual purpose: generating electricity to power the farms while protecting valuable crops.
For farmers, having a solar installation can reduce electricity costs, extend growing seasons, and create a legacy for future generations. Here’s how to enlist Cedar Creek Energy’s help to build greater stability into your farm’s business model.
Solar Panels Help Crops Flourish
Delicate crops thrive under solar panel arrays. Crops that grow under solar panels for farms are shielded from dry, drought-like conditions in the heat of the summer. PV solar panels protect crops from hail and keep shade-loving crops such as leafy vegetables out of direct sunlight while still providing filtered light. Ground mounted solar panels for agriculture also help to regulate the soil temperature underneath them by absorbing the sunlight before it reaches the ground. This is great for farmers who want to extend the growing season for cool weather plants.
Growing plants under your solar panels may seem like a novel idea, but it’s not just a hypothetical. Many companies, whether farms or otherwise, are already using the space under their panels for this purpose. In fact, one of Cedar Creek Energy’s own clients, Aveda Corporation, is taking advantage of the growing space under their solar panels to create a wildlife-friendly campus. Although Aveda is not an agricultural company, they are using the space under their newly completed ground mount solar array to grow pollinator-friendly flowers and plants.
Creating Affordable Agricultural Solar Arrays
Solar arrays for agriculture don’t need to be financially taxing to install. In fact, due to state and federal solar programs and grants, you’ll likely have little to no upfront cost when installing solar panels on your agricultural land. You may also be eligible to receive a federal tax rebate for a percentage of your expenses in the first year you have your solar panels installed.
Without high start-up costs to consider, PV solar panels for farms begin to save the client money immediately. Even if you’re paying off a low-interest solar loan, it’s likely more affordable than your energy bill previously was. And many solar users find that their system produces enough energy to completely power their farm on sunny days, which completely eliminates the expense of grid power.
Creating a Solar Legacy for Your Family Farm
The future of farming can feel uncertain, especially with new technology being introduced. So, why not use that new technology to provide your family with some peace of mind? A solar energy system for your farm can help you create a legacy for your family. Solar panels will help your family business weather the challenges of poor crops, unpredictable weather, fluctuating pricing, and more.
With the impact of climate change on many family farms, you’ll also be creating a clean energy legacy. Your children and grandchildren can continue growing crops and raising livestock while worrying less about rising temperatures and natural disasters. These factors can cause poor yields that put farmers out of business, so you’ll feel more in control knowing you’re doing everything you can to reverse climate change.
Solar Energy Installers for Minnesota Farms and Agriculture
Solar energy is an easily implemented, profitable solution. By working with an experienced local solar company, you can be sure your system is created in a way that maximizes energy production and keeps your farm running on renewable energy. Cedar Creek Energy’s team of solar pros will use information we gather during a free solar energy audit to create the best renewable energy system for your farm.
Contact our team of commercial solar professionals to get started.