How using sheep at solar farms improves energy efficiency

The rapid development of solar energy in the agricultural sector is creating not only new electricity sources for farmers, but also new approaches to land use. Although there are concerns about fertile land being removed from agricultural production, international experience shows that areas occupied by solar power plants can generate stable income from both energy production and livestock farming.

In the United States, agrivoltaics — a model combining solar power generation and animal grazing on the same land — is becoming increasingly popular. According to industry estimates, more than 113,000 sheep are already grazing at solar energy facilities across the country. For farmers, this provides an opportunity to diversify revenues and reduce maintenance costs for energy infrastructure.

One successful example is Illinois farmer Bryant Parker, who partnered with an energy company to graze his flock at a 7.1 MW solar farm. Land that was previously used for growing corn and soybeans now supplies electricity to more than 1,200 households while simultaneously serving as pastureland for livestock.

For solar farm operators, excessive vegetation is a serious issue because tall grass can shade photovoltaic panels and reduce energy output. During dry seasons, overgrown vegetation also increases wildfire risks. Traditional mowing methods using tractors and brush cutters require significant spending on fuel, equipment maintenance, and labor.

Using sheep offers a natural and cost-effective solution to this problem. The animals maintain optimal grass height, effectively acting as “biological lawnmowers.” Experts note that sheep are particularly suitable for solar facilities because, unlike goats or cattle, they do not climb on panels, damage cables, or create major infrastructure risks.

Energy companies also emphasize the environmental benefits of this approach. Completely removing vegetation can lead to soil erosion, while controlled grazing helps maintain stable ground cover. Angie Burke, Director of Land Management at Pivot Energy, said sheep help achieve the ideal balance between soil conservation and maximum solar energy efficiency.

For Ukraine, where farmers are increasingly investing in solar energy due to instability in the power system, this model could become a promising solution. Cooperation between solar farm owners and sheep farmers could transform vegetation maintenance costs into additional income from meat or wool production, while also improving overall land-use efficiency.