Byron Kominek, a former diplomat and Peace Corps volunteer, grew up on a 24-acre family farm in Colorado. After the farm failed to make any profits, Kominek decided to start farming using solar energy. He mounted 3,200 solar panels on 8-foot posts on his farm.
Cost
Solar panel farming costs are often determined by the size of the array and the location of the solar panels. Some solar farms are built on top of existing structures. They are often located close to power lines and electrical panel. A water supply is also required for solar farms to maintain efficiency and keep them clean. Permitting and building a solar farm can take 3-5 years.
As the world emerges from lockdown, the demand for solar components is growing. But, there is still limited supply. This is the biggest challenge facing the utility solar industry. According to industry analysts, current bottlenecks are unlikely to be removed within the next 12 months. This could translate into lower margins and higher offtake rates for offtakers.
Land value
The land value for solar panel farm farming is on the rise. In California, where the demand for solar panels is high, land is now worth more than $1,000 per acre. But, the price of land can vary from state to state. Arizona's non-irrigated land might be more valuable than Arizona's row crops. Due to incentivization, solar rights in Massachusetts are valued higher than other states.
If you are looking for a utility scale solar farm, make sure to find land that is level and free from streams or ponds. The land should not be far from a road. Attention: A utility-scale photovoltaic farm requires a lease.
Conservation values
The enhancement of wildlife habitat and the production of agricultural products are some of the conservation values of solar panel agriculture. Other land development should not be disturbed when solar panels are placed. Solar farms can be placed on rooftops or parking lots, or even on land that was once mined. These solar farms can produce clean energy for many decades and provide other environmental benefits.
Solar farmers should plant native plants near their panels. Because solar panels can sometimes reach up to 18 inches high, it's not recommended that tall grasses or plants with low tolerances for shade be planted. It is important to maintain and cultivate pollinator habitat as part of solar panel farming. 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 most important aspects is location. You should find a location that receives the most amount of sunlight. You also need to have space for maintenance and access to the panels. The land should be located in an area that has a high demand of solar electricity.
One of the main benefits of solar panel farming is that it can significantly reduce energy costs. This is especially important for farmers with poor land productivity. Also, solar panel agriculture can generate a consistent income stream that is more reliable than cash crops.