Byron Kominek, a former diplomat as well as a Peace Corps volunteer, grew on a 24 acre family ranch in the Rocky Mountains. His farm was not making a profit so Kominek decided that solar power would be a better option. On his farm, he installed 3,200 solar panel, which were mounted on 8-foot posts.
Cost
Costs of solar panel farming are often determined by how large the array is and where the panels are located. Some solar farms are located on existing structures. They are located close to electrical lines and panels. To maintain the efficiency of solar farms, you will also need to have water. A solar farm is usually built and permitted within 3-5 years.
The demand for solar parts is increasing as the world breaks free from its lockdown. However, the supply of solar components remains limited. This is the biggest challenge facing the utility solar industry. According to industry experts, the current bottlenecks in the solar industry are unlikely to be fixed within the next twelve months. This could translate into lower margins and higher offtake rates for offtakers.
Land value
The value of land for solar panel farming is increasing dramatically. California is home to the highest demand for solar panel farming. Land is worth over $1,000 an acre. The price of land can differ from one state to another. Non-irrigated land in Arizona, for example, might be less valuable than row cropland from the same state. Because of incentivization solar rights in Massachusetts are more valuable than those from other states.
If you are considering a utility-scale solar farm, find land that is flat and free from ponds or streams. The land should be adjacent to a road. However, a utility-scale farm requiring solar energy requires a long-term rental agreement.
Conservation values
Conservation values of solar panel farming include the enhancement of wildlife habitat and agricultural production. Solar facilities should be sited in areas that are not disturbed by other land development. Solar farms can also be placed on abandoned mine lands or parking lots. You can get clean energy and other benefits for many years.
Solar farmers should plant native species in zones near their solar panels. This will promote biodiversity and pollinators. The solar panels can rise up to 18 inches above ground. Therefore, tall grasses and other plants that have low tolerance for the sun would not be appropriate. Pollinator habitat is an important part of the process of solar panel farming and requires detailed maintenance and cultivation plans. Solar farmers should work in cooperation with local communities to incorporate native plants, which help conserve pollinators.
Profitability
You have many factors to consider when determining whether solar panel farming is financially viable. One of the biggest factors is location. It is important to choose a spot that gets the most sunlight. Access to the panels and space for maintenance are also important. The land should be located in an area that has a high demand of solar electricity.
One of the major benefits of solar panel farm is its ability reduce energy costs. This is especially beneficial for farmers who have low-productive land. Also, solar panel agriculture can generate a consistent income stream that is more reliable than cash crops.