Why oil majors Shell and BP are combining solar energy and agricultural production
Publishing timestamp: 2023-11-14 10:56:43
Summary
The article discusses the emerging industry of agrivoltaics, which combines solar energy production with agricultural activities such as sheep grazing and crop growing. This land management strategy aims to alleviate tension between farmers and solar developers by allowing both activities to coexist. Agrivoltaic projects are seen as a win-win for farmers and solar developers, as it helps with community acceptance of solar projects and provides steady income for farmers. The article highlights the growth of agrivoltaics in the US and the involvement of companies like Lightsource BP and Silicon Ranch. While crop production under solar panels is still a challenge, there is ongoing research and funding to enable its deployment. The article emphasizes the importance of community relationships and mutually beneficial land-use arrangements for the success of agrivoltaics.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
Keywords: land management, land conservation and preservation, science, solar power plant, crop farming, environment, technology, grain farming, video first, u.s. department of energy, bp plc, climate, agricultural land use, farmer, business news, sheep, agriculture, sheep and goat farming, breaking news: technology, shell plc, bees, energy, alternative and sustainable energy, solar power,
Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/14/agrvoltaics231106brighamsf.html