Jason Bradley, CEO of Calgary-based Sun Cycle Farms, is pioneering the idea of raising cattle on a working solar farm. Despite initial skepticism, the company’s pilot project in southern Alberta proved that livestock production and renewable energy can co-exist. Sun Cycle Farms is an agrivoltaics company, which combines solar energy production with agricultural activities. The company is part of a growing trend in North America where solar farm owners are deploying sheep and pigs to keep weeds down and reduce mowing. Researchers are also exploring crops that can be grown in and around solar panels, as many crops perform better in shaded areas. The rapid growth of renewable energy has led to concerns about land use, with some rural residents feeling frustrated about the changes to their landscapes. Alberta’s government has introduced regulations to ensure that renewable energy installations can co-exist with livestock and crops. Bradley’s company is exploring innovative solutions, such as electric fencing and solar-powered collars, to train cattle to stay away from solar panels.
Harvesting power: How agrivoltaics brings together sustainable food and energy under one roof
