Solar Energy Expansion in Rural Communities | Focus on Ag
Solar energy is leading the way, with much of the new development occurring on farmland and in rural communities. It has the potential to be a financial opportunity for landowners, yet it can
Farm Solar Panel & Energy Grants: A Guide to
Solar panels on your farm can lower operational costs. Learn how to secure federal funding for solar energy on your farm or ranch.
Agrivoltaics | Solar Market Research & Analysis | NLR
This research project studies which solar designs are most beneficial for growing crops underneath solar panels in order to have the greatest benefit to local economies, farms, and solar
The Use and Potential of Agrivoltaics in the United States
Agrivoltaics are the co-location of ground-mounted rows of solar photovoltaic panels to produce electricity together with raising certain types of crops or livestock or providing pollinator
Energy Programs
We have programs that help convert older heating sources to cleaner technologies, produce advanced biofuels, install solar panels, build biorefineries, and much more.
USDA & DOE Solar Energy and Farming Initiatives
Research examines the social, economic, and operational impacts of agrivoltaics on farmers, rural communities, and rural electric cooperatives. Learn more about DOE''s agrivoltaics research.
Empowering Farms, Ranches, and Rural Communities: The
In the race to meet renewable energy goals as demand rises across the United States, farm and ranch land is increasingly becoming a target for solar development.
Rural Energy for America Program Renewable Energy Systems
The program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements.
Solar Energy Initiatives in Rural Communities
Current policies and funding opportunities support the growth of rural solar energy projects, aiming to address energy poverty and achieve sustainable development goals.
Harvesting the Sun–Twice: Agrivoltaics and Rural Land-Use
As shown in Map 1, roughly 18% of ground-mounted PV facilities in the U.S. were installed between 2021 and 2023, with a notable portion of these projects built on former cropland or
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