A pilot program in New Jersey, launched in 2021, aims to support and study agrivoltaic projects, which combine solar panels with farming. The Rutgers Agrivoltaics Program has grown to three sites across the state, focusing on optimizing solar projects with key crops. The program envisions installing solar panels that can accommodate various commodities, such as hay, soybeans, and produce. Agrivoltaic projects offer a win-win for farmers and sustainable energy production, including benefits like cooler microclimates and reduced water usage. The use of solar panels in conjunction with crop production has shown promising results, with soybean crops yielding more under solar panels than in open areas. The program will continue research through 2026 to gather data and advise growers on suitable agricultural commodities to pair with solar panels, supporting New Jersey’s agricultural sector and clean energy goals. The pairing of solar panels with farming has been growing steadily, with over 400 sites in the US focused on native and pollinator habitats, and another 200 used as grazing land for livestock.
Scientists unearth groundbreaking findings while cultivating crops beneath photovoltaic panels, realizing the advantages.
