It doesn’t have to be either/or. Both are good options with benefits. In the past solar farms were ecological wastelands with mowing or spraying to keep grass down. Running sheep under the panels is a win for enviro & sheep & hort. Genuine economic benefits to dual land use. #agsky #agrivoltaics

Correct. The grass grows better with more moisture in the soil from shade and microclimate under panels.

#AnimalWelfare. Sheep do better under the panels than out in the open pasture. Because the sheep have an easier time of it running with access to shade and shelter from wind, rain and hot sun, their wool is better quality and stronger than when from sheep raised on open pasture.
#agsky

Field crops like alfalfa.
Coffee - something of interest in NZ in Northland - a new crop for us and a lot of solar going in there.
The set up for the panels for crops is much better if done at the planning stage to keep the soil clear of cables etc. between the panels./3
#agrivoltaics #agsky

#Agrivoltaics. Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, Swiss chard
Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, beets, turnips
Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage.
Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries.
Legumes: Beans, peas.
Mushrooms
Saw they’re even able to grow saffron in Norway/2
#agsky

Depends on the height of the panels and climate. #Solar grazing in drier conditions (Aus) sees more grass under the panels than open paddock as there is a microclimate under panels - moisture off the panels/shade sees more moisture in the soil for grass.
Same with shade tolerant crops.1/
#agsky

#agsky

Cyclone Gabrielle showed me that - had no idea the Hawkes Bay was in trouble for days - I had no cellphone coverage or internet. 😬

Flip - enough to worry about at the moment without wallowing in it for leisure as well. 😁