Across rural regions in the United States, farmers are increasingly adopting agri voltaics—systems that allow for both crop production and solar energy generation on the same land. This dual-use approach is gaining traction as a way to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability.
Agri voltaics involves installing solar panels on agricultural land while continuing to use that land for growing crops or grazing livestock. The panels are typically raised higher off the ground or spaced apart so that plants can grow beneath them and farm equipment or animals can move freely. According to YellowLite, a company specializing in these systems, “In simple terms, an agri-voltaic system lets your land work smarter, not harder. Solar panels are mounted higher off the ground or spaced out strategically so crops can grow beneath or around them. If you’re wondering how this innovative setup works, YellowLite explains it.”
Farmers have several reasons for considering agri voltaics. These systems help lower electricity costs by generating power onsite and create two income streams from both crops and electricity sales. Partial shading from solar panels may also protect certain crops from excessive heat.
The practice has expanded rapidly in recent years. In 2020, there were about 27,000 acres of agri voltaic installations producing 4.5 gigawatts (GW) of solar energy across the U.S., according to data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). By November 2024, this had more than doubled to over 60,000 acres generating 10 GW of power.
Some research suggests that specific crops such as leafy greens or berries may perform better under partial shade provided by solar arrays.
YellowLite outlines additional benefits beyond energy savings: “Traditional ground-mounted solar installations often involve heavy site prep that can degrade soil and disrupt ecosystems. But with agri voltaics, we take a different approach: Low-impact installations that preserve soil structure; Pollinator-friendly vegetation beneath panels to support bees and beneficial insects; Reduced need for herbicides with well-managed ground cover.” They add that these measures help maintain biodiversity and can lower maintenance expenses over time.
Stormwater management is another consideration: “Agri voltaic designs can help your land manage water more efficiently,” states YellowLite. Permeable ground covers and panel spacing minimize runoff while retaining soil moisture—a benefit in areas with variable rainfall.
Livestock operations may also see advantages from integrating grazing under solar panels: “Sheep or goats can graze beneath the panels, naturally controlling vegetation; Shade from panels helps animals stay cooler in the summer; Raised wiring and module heights protect both animals and equipment.”
Not all farmland is suitable for agri voltaics; ideal conditions include flat or gently sloping terrain with good sun exposure and crops tolerant of partial shade.
A case study highlighted by YellowLite involved a farm in El Dorado, Ohio where a 10.24 kW ground-mounted array was installed using Canadian Solar panels and SMA inverters [https://www.yellowlite.com/gallery/dayton-ohio-rural-ground-mount-solar-installation/]. Since installation in 2015, this system has produced approximately 11,000 kilowatt-hours annually—resulting in $47,619 saved on energy bills over time while reducing carbon emissions.
Return on investment varies but some farms recoup their initial costs within six to eight years depending on system size and incentives available at local or federal levels. Farms using these systems have reported an average increase of 10–15% in overall revenue due to diversified income sources.
YellowLite offers services including consultation, custom design tailored to each farm’s needs, assistance with financing options and permits as well as ongoing monitoring.
As challenges like climate change impact agriculture alongside rising utility rates nationwide, proponents say agri voltaics represents an evolving model for sustainable farming practices combining food production with renewable energy generation.
