Sheep Take Over Solar Farms: A Sustainable Solution in Texas

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In Texas, an innovative approach is emerging within the solar energy industry as sheep are increasingly being used to maintain grass on solar farms. SB Energy operates the fifth-largest solar project in the U.S., spanning 4,000 acres in Milam County. To manage the substantial vegetation, approximately 3,000 sheep are deployed onto the land, taking advantage of their ability to navigate the tight spaces between solar panels, thus providing an eco-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawn mowers.

This trend, known as solar grazing, has gained momentum alongside the rise of the solar industry. The American Solar Grazing Association reports that over 60 solar grazing projects are now active in 27 states. The practice not only helps reduce maintenance costs for solar farms but also supports the struggling sheep and wool market, which has seen dwindling livestock numbers in Texas.

Sheepherder JR Howard, who began contracting with solar farms in 2021, has expanded his operation to include over 8,000 sheep. "Just the growth has been kind of crazy for us," Howard remarked, indicating the booming demand for solar grazing services and the positive impact on local ranching communities.

Agrivoltaics, the concept of using land for both solar energy and agricultural practices, has earned praise from industry experts, who believe it could rejuvenate the sheep industry, creating new opportunities for ranchers in the process. However, the long-term effects of solar grazing on soil health and agricultural productivity are still being studied.

As solar installations continue to proliferate, sheep grazing on solar farms could represent a significant step toward sustainable energy practices that align with agricultural viability.

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