Michigan State University researchers and MSU Extension educators are evaluating the potential of agrivoltaics which combines agricultural operations with solar energy production in Michigan.
Agrivoltaics systems place solar panels directly in the field, either arranged several feet above agricultural activities or in rows to allow for crops or animals to be between them. The goal is to continue producing an agricultural commodity while gaining another revenue source for the farm through solar energy.
Proponents of agrivoltaics tout the dual use of agricultural land, which can allow for plant and animal agriculture operations to coexist with solar energy production and the ability to use such energy on the farm.
Younsuk Dong, an assistant professor and irrigation specialist in the MSU Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, leads several research efforts looking to improve energy- and water-use efficiency.
One of these projects is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and is aimed at developing a solar-powered irrigation technology that saves farmers money through more efficient use of energy and water.
Source : msu.edu