Shadows of Uncertainty Surround the Future of Solar Power

The article discusses the tension between solar energy and agriculture, specifically whether the installation of solar panels on farm land is a good idea. While some farmers see solar energy as a new revenue stream and lease their marginal land for projects, others are concerned about the loss of productive farmland. Jon Freeman, a fourth-generation farmer from Illinois, worries that thousands of acres of good farmland are being taken out for solar production, saying “we’ve got to eat.” Brad Haight, a lawyer, notes that payments for solar projects vary widely, but some landowners are turning down offers due to philosophical concerns about converting prime farmland to solar panels. The article also explores the concept of agrivoltaics, where agriculture and solar energy coexist, and how this approach can benefit both. However, others question the financial viability of agrivoltaics and whether it can be scaled up. The article concludes that while solar energy can be a valuable revenue stream, it’s crucial to balance the needs of agriculture and energy production.

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