Can dual-use land be more profitable?

Combining Solar and Agricultural Production

Dual-use land, also known as agrivoltaics, is a sustainable approach that integrates solar panels with agricultural production. By stacking solar panels above crops or using vertical farming techniques, farmers can maintain or even increase their yields while generating electricity. A 5-acre solar agrivoltaic farm in California, for example, produced 1.1 million kWh of electricity in 2020, generating $140,000 in revenue. The farm also grew a variety of crops, including tomatoes, strawberries, and lettuce, with yields comparable to traditional farming methods.

Maximizing Revenue Streams

The revenue potential of dual-use land depends on the solar array’s size, agricultural productivity, and market conditions. A 1-megawatt solar array, for instance, can generate $150,000 to $200,000 in annual revenue, assuming an average electricity price of 10 cents per kilowatt-hour. By integrating agriculture, farmers can offset the costs of land preparation, irrigation, and equipment, increasing their net income. In some cases, agrivoltaic farms can even sell surplus produce at a premium, further enhancing their revenue.

Technical Considerations

To implement solar agrivoltaics successfully, farmers must consider technical factors such as panel spacing, shading, and crop selection. The ideal panel spacing for agrivoltaics is typically around 10-15 feet, allowing for sufficient sunlight to reach crops while maximizing panel efficiency. Farmers must also choose crops that thrive in partial shade, such as lettuce, spinach, or herbs. By carefully balancing solar energy production and agricultural productivity, farmers can unlock the full potential of dual-use land and reap the rewards of this innovative approach.