Solar Grazing: A Partnership Between Livestock and Clean Energy

Clean energy, fertile soils, and thriving sheep—solar grazing is redefining land use by fostering new synergies within the agricultural sector.

The journey toward a cleaner and more sustainable energy model requires ingenuity, and some of the best solutions emerge where different worlds intersect. This is the case in High Point, Texas, where 450 Dorper sheep, recognizable by their distinctive black heads, roam daily across 200 hectares of a solar plant. Here, they find shelter beneath photovoltaic panels, whether escaping the intense sun or seeking refuge from rain.

Beyond benefiting from the shade, these resilient Texas sheep play a crucial role in maintaining the facility. Their actions lie at the heart of an innovative approach known as solar grazing, a method that combines livestock, agriculture, and renewable energy to deliver environmental, economic, and social advantages. But is achieving this balance as straightforward as it seems? Let’s explore.

What will you learn in this article?

What solar grazing is all about

According to the International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook 2024 report, by 2023, renewables provided 30% of the world’s electricity supply. Among these, solar photovoltaic (PV) stands out as a cornerstone of the energy transition. However, a pressing question arises: how do we make the best use of the land where these systems are installed? Should they be solely dedicated to energy generation, or could they support other activities?

Solar grazing, also known as agrovoltaics, offers a solution to this dilemma. This practice involves integrating solar panel installations with agricultural and livestock activities, blending technology and tradition to maximize the utility of the same land. Beyond producing clean energy, this approach fosters sustainability in primary sectors.

While the concept of agrovoltaics emerged in the 1980s, it has only recently gained widespread attention as solar panels become more prevalent. The possibilities are promising. Research by Oregon State University indicates that agricultural lands are prime locations for solar energy generation. In fact, utilizing just 1% of these lands for agrovoltaic systems could meet global energy demand.

High Point: A partnership between sheep and the sun

High Point, Texas, exemplifies the success of solar grazing. At this photovoltaic installation, solar panels provide shade and protection from rain for 450 sheep belonging to the Gerlach family, third-generation local farmers.

What do the livestock bring to this collaboration? They graze on weeds and grass, keeping vegetation in check, while their hooves naturally aerate the soil and their manure enriches it. In essence, they help maintain 70–90% of the 202-hectare solar plant.

Farmer Trent Gerlach shared in Renewable Energy World that initially, some community members were skeptical about the PV plant. However, the partnership with ACCIONA Energía has become vital in sustaining his farm.

Before the collaboration, the Gerlachs owned only 50 sheep. Thanks to payments for grazing services on the solar site, alongside revenue from wool and meat sales, they have expanded their flock nearly tenfold. This diversified income stream has strengthened their farming business, allowing them to hire more full-time employees and nurturing hope that their three children will one day take over the family operation.

The benefits of solar grazing

This strategy is not only an innovative solution for efficient land use but also delivers several benefits for farmers and society alike:

Biodiversity Conservation: The land around solar panels serves as habitats for local species. Sheep and other animals disperse seeds and support the growth of native plants, while reduced machinery and chemical use attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, essential for crops.
Improved soil health: Controlled grazing enhances soil fertility and structure, prevents erosion, and promotes water retention. This approach aligns with regenerative agriculture principles, fostering a resilient ecosystem.
Cost savings in maintenance: By eliminating the need for heavy machinery or herbicides to maintain solar installations, farmers save on operating expenses thanks to the animals’ work in clearing vegetation.
Income diversification: Solar grazing allows farmers to earn from both clean energy generated by solar panels and livestock products such as wool, meat, or milk. This dual-income model boosts resilience against economic and climatic uncertainties.
Sustainability promotion: By combining renewable energy production with agricultural practices, solar grazing exemplifies how harmonious interaction with nature can be both profitable and environmentally beneficial.

Solar grazing showcases the potential for tradition and technology to collaborate in addressing today’s challenges. The High Point experience in Texas proves it’s possible to produce clean energy while bolstering local communities and advancing environmental sustainability—paving the way for a future where human activity and nature coexist in balance.

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