Byron Kominek, a former diplomat and Peace Corps volunteer, grew up on a 24-acre family farm in Colorado. He decided to use solar power to farm the farm after it failed to make a profit. On his farm, he installed 3,200 solar panel, which were mounted on 8-foot posts.
Cost
The size and location of solar panel farms will often determine the cost of farming. Some solar farms are built on top of existing structures. They are often located close to power lines and electrical panel. Solar farms need water to keep their panels clean and operate efficiently. Building a solar-farm can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years.
The demand for solar components grows as the world comes out of lockdown. However, the supply of solar components remains limited. The utility solar industry faces its greatest challenge to date. Industry analysts predict that the current bottlenecks will not be eliminated within the next 12 month. This could lead to lower profit margins for developers as well as higher offtake prices.
Land value
The value of land for solar panel farming is increasing dramatically. California is a hot spot for solar panels. The average land price is over $1,000 per acre. But the cost of land can vary greatly from one state and another. Non-irrigated land in Arizona, for example, might be less valuable than row cropland from the same state. In Massachusetts, solar rights are valued at a higher level than those of other states due to incentivization.
A flat area of land is essential if you plan to construct a large-scale utility-scale solar plant. The land should not be far from a road. But beware: a utility-scale solar farm requires a long-term lease.
Conservation values
Solar panel farming is known for its conservation value, which includes the enhancement and production of both wildlife habitats as well as agricultural production. Solar facilities should be sited in areas that are not disturbed by other land development. Solar farms can also be placed on abandoned mine lands or parking lots. This way, they can provide clean energy and other environmental benefits for decades.
Solar farmers should plant native plants near their panels. The solar panels can rise up to 18 inches above ground. Therefore, tall grasses and other plants that have low tolerance for the sun would not be appropriate. Pollinator habitat is an important part of the process of solar panel farming and requires detailed maintenance and cultivation plans. In order to preserve pollinators, solar farmers should cooperate with local communities.
Profitability
It is important to evaluate the financial viability of solar panels farming. Location is the most important factor. The best location should receive the maximum amount of sunlight. You will also need space for maintenance and easy access to your panels. Ideally, the land should be in an area with a high demand for solar electricity.
One of its main advantages is the ability to reduce energy prices. This is particularly useful for farmers who own land with limited productivity. Also, solar panel agriculture can generate a consistent income stream that is more reliable than cash crops.