Farming isn't getting easier
Modern agriculture is under tremendous pressure. A variety of impacts are making farming increasingly difficult:
These challenges make it increasingly important to rethink how we use our land.
Agrivoltaics - Building resilience by integrating solar energy production into farming
Agrivoltaics combines agriculture with solar energy production. Instead of dedicating land to one use or the other, farms can produce crops or support livestock while generating renewable electricity.
When designed appropriately, agrivoltaic systems can help:
Why vertical solar?
Our vertical solar racking system integrates bifacial panels – panels that generate electricity from both sides. Installed upright like a fence, often in the east- to west-facing orientation, their small footprint is conducive to dual-land use. Vertical systems offer several advantages including:
Ready to see how Sunzaun can support your farm? Get in touch with us today!
Agrivoltaic Applications
Livestock
Sunzaun can be integrated into grazing land while maintaining pasture use. The PV rows provide fencing, wind protection, and localized shade for livestock while continuing to generate electricity.
Check out research at Rutgers Animal Farm Site for more information.
Crops
Vertical solar can be incorporated into crop production to create more resilient growing environments. Wind reduction and localized shading can help reduce heat stress and conserve soil moisture for certain crops.
Sunzaun systems are customizable and can be ordered in a range of heights to accommodate taller crops or evolving farm operations.
Crop research is underway at several land-grant universities — and we’re proud to be contributing to the innovation! Check Sunzaun’s involvement with crop research at Colorado State University.
