When we think of symbiotic relationships (aka ones that are mutually beneficial), we typically think of two plants or animals that work well together. Did you know, however, that sheep and solar farms can benefit each other similarly? Sheep living in pasture with solar panels benefit from shade in hot weather and more nutritious grass – and they stop weeds from growing on the panels.
Solar Farms Benefit Sheep And Sheep Benefit Solar Farms
When it comes to solar energy, the benefits are clear: it’s renewable, it’s clean, and it doesn’t pollute. But what about the impact on our environment? Do we have to sacrifice something for the sake of progress? (1)
The answer is no. When you put solar panels in grazing fields, not only do you get a cleaner energy source—you also get healthier sheep! Solar farms benefit sheep in two key ways: they provide shade from the sun and healthier grass for the animals to eat. Shade is a crucial part of any sheep’s life because it keeps them cool in hot weather and helps prevent heat stroke. In fact, it can be so important that many farmers invest in shade structures like barns and sheds to protect their flocks from too much sun exposure. (2)
Agrivoltaic Farms
Agrivoltaic farms are those that combine grazing animals with solar panels to help provide more efficient renewable energy for a lower cost, all while reducing the risk of wildfires. Agrilvoltaic farms are a great way to help reduce the environmental impact of renewable energy, and solar farms can be an even better option than wind turbines when it comes to protecting sheep. Wind turbines can be noisy and cause stress in animals like ewes with lambs.
The combination of solar panels and sheep can be a very good thing for the environment. The solar farms need the sheep to graze on nearby fields to keep them maintained, so both parties benefit from this arrangement. The solar farms use the sheep to keep grass short and prevent wild fires. The solar farms also help reduce the amount of pollution that is released into the environment by providing an alternative energy source to fossil fuels.
Big Benefits For The Sheep And The Farmers
Sheep who live on solar farms spend more time grazing. They are healthier because they rest more, get more nutritious food, and experience less heat stress than sheep graze in empty fields. As a result, sheep who live on solar farms produce more wool and can grow faster. This is great for farmers because they can sell more wool at higher prices on the open market.
Solar farms also benefit farmers by providing them with a steady income. With solar farms, farmers can make money from leasing previously unprofitable land because it does not produce any crops. These farms help farmers get out of debt and provide them with an alternative source of income during times when no other opportunities are available.
The Bottom Line
Solar farms benefit from grazing sheep and grazing sheep benefit from them. On top of that, the farmers also benefit from profits for the solar panels as well as healthier, woolier sheep. Hopefully farmers around the world will be starting to implement more programs such as this.
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Sources
- “Putting solar panels in grazing fields is good for sheep.” New Scientist. Christa Lesté-Lasserre. February 1, 2023.
- “Solar farm trial shows improved fleece on merino sheep grazed under panels.” ABC. Hannah Jose and Olivia Calver. May 29, 2022.