While millions of homes throughout the U.S. are using the power of solar energy, the agriculture industry is starting to reap the benefits of solar on the farm. The use of solar energy can heat buildings, help dry crops, and power water pumps.
How Solar Panels Are Used Effectively in the Agricultural Industry
Dries Crops & Grains
Solar energy can be used for crop and grain drying. Not only does it help dry crops faster, but they are dried more evenly. When crops and grains are left to dry in the field after harvest, they are at risk of damage caused by pests, birds, and inclement weather. Solar collectors can be used throughout the entire year.
Remote Electricity Supply
Using PV solar panels on farms is less expensive than installing new electrical lines in order to provide power to remote locations. Since PV solar panels do not require fuel to function, nor do they possess any moving parts, they can be operated and maintained with great ease. Farmers are able to use PV panels for lights, water pumps, and electric fences on farms.
Benefits of Installing Solar for Agricultural Land Managers
- Solar can actually provide another source of revenue for the farm and help to offset other operating expenses, especially in years where growth is not as substantial.
- The panels can be installed on marginal lands and do not have to be installed where you are currently growing crops.
- Solar can be leased with no upfront capital required.
- The shade provided by solar panels can even allow for planting other shade-tolerant and hand-harvest crops in areas where these crops would normally not be able to grow.
If you are part of the agriculture industry and are interested in installing solar panels, contact Sea Bright Solar and schedule a consultation with us today.
