Agrivoltaics in the Midwest – Webinar

This webinar is hosted by the USDA-Funded Sustainably Co-locating Agricultural and Photovoltaic Electricity Systems (SCAPES project; more details at scapes.illinois.edu) and the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE; more details at sustainability.illinois.edu).

During the Webinar Joel Tatum (AFT) and Dennis Bowman (U of I Extension) will discuss the importance of incorporating Dual use practices as we see more solar development in the Midwest.  There will be discussion about what the total footprint of solar could be, how smart solar siting can be utilized and how Agrivoltaic research and adoption will be important as these projects move forward.

States are working to address climate change by setting ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse emissions. A key part of the solution is for states to expand renewable energy development, which puts our agricultural land at risk. Recent models show that preferred sites — rooftops and brownfields — will not be enough to meet future energy needs. Therefore, the siting of solar energy projects on greenfields, including productive agricultural land, will be crucial for expansion. Smart solar siting happens at the state, community, and farm level. Agrivoltaics will play a key role in meeting renewable energy goals and mandates while keeping agricultural land in practice.