Harvesting the Sun and the Soil: How Agrivoltaics Could Transform Rural Economies and Boost Sustainable Farming

A recent report highlights the potential of agrivoltaics—the practice of combining solar panels and agriculture—to transform rural economies. By installing elevated solar arrays that allow crops to grow beneath them, farmers can diversify their income, reduce energy costs, and even improve crop yields in some instances. The report suggests that agrivoltaics could help rural communities capitalize on renewable energy while maintaining agricultural productivity, ultimately offering a path to increased prosperity and resilience for farmers facing economic and climate-related challenges.

As interest in sustainable energy grows, agrivoltaics is gaining momentum across the U.S., with pilot projects showing positive results for both energy generation and farming operations. Experts believe that continued research, supportive policies, and investment will be key to unlocking the full benefits of this dual-use approach, potentially redefining how rural lands are managed and valued for future generations.

Read the original Arizona solar power article.