Midwest Agrivoltaic Study: Alfalfa Thrives, Cuts Seed Costs 25%

New research demonstrates alfalfa can grow effectively between utility-scale solar panels in the Midwest, maintaining crop yields and reducing seed expenses by 25%. This study points to a scalable path for agrivoltaics.

A U.S. Department of Energy-funded study, spearheaded by The Ohio State University Extension and presented at Michigan State University Extension's MI Ag Ideas session, explores the viability of cultivating forage crops within active solar facilities. This research focuses on agrivoltaics, the practice of co-locating agriculture and solar energy production on the same land, aiming for scalable and economically sound solutions for the Midwest.

Researchers established replicated plots of alfalfa and a cool-season grass hay mix between solar arrays at an operating Ohio solar facility. They compared yields and quality to control plots located outside the arrays over two growing seasons. Despite initial drought conditions, alfalfa grown between solar panels matched the yields of control plots in the second year, even with lower seeding rates.

Assistant Professor Brady Campbell, a State Small Ruminant Extension Specialist, noted that this method allows farmers to achieve the same alfalfa yield while reducing seed costs by 25%. The Ohio State University Extension Field Specialist Eric Romich confirmed the research's relevance for local application across the Midwest.

This finding offers a dual benefit: increased land efficiency and direct economic savings for farmers. The ability to maintain yields with less seed translates into immediate financial advantages. The project also examined soil compaction, observing improvements after one year of forage cropping. While alfalfa quality remained high, cool-season grass hay also showed promise, with some solar alley plots exceeding control yields.

Success hinges on thoughtful site design, considering drainage, panel layout, and alley width from the project's inception. This research indicates a pathway for the agricultural sector to integrate renewable energy infrastructure with viable crop production, enhancing economic and environmental outcomes.

Further studies will likely focus on long-term crop performance, the integration of livestock grazing, and optimizing solar farm designs for various agricultural practices across different Midwest climates.