1,700 Sheep Set Up Between Solar Panels Reveal an Incredible Transformation
At the Wellington Solar Farm in New South Wales, Australia, a unique experiment has been underway for three years involving 1,700 merino sheep. This study, led by Lightsourcebp in collaboration with EMM Consulting and Elders Rural Services, explored the effects of grazing sheep between solar panels compared to traditional pastures. The goal was to see if the presence of solar installations impacted the health and growth of the animals.
Agrivoltaics: Combining Solar Energy and Livestock Grazing
Agrivoltaics blends agricultural activities with solar power generation on the same land, an approach growing in popularity. Typically, solar farms operate without animals, but using sheep to maintain vegetation around panels reduces maintenance costs and offers an eco-friendly alternative. In this study, the sheep were split into two groups: one grazing on usual pastures, and the other roaming among the solar panels.
The results were encouraging. The solar panels provided the sheep with protection during extreme heat and bad weather, offering shade and shelter. This shading effect also improved soil moisture retention, leading to higher quality grass for the animals to graze on.
Improved Wool Growth and Animal Well-Being
The study revealed benefits beyond just shelter. Researchers noticed that the sheep grazing between solar panels appeared healthier overall. The panels may have helped reduce parasites, creating a cleaner and safer environment. These conditions contributed to an increase in wool growth and stronger wool fibers.
Brendan Clarke, acting environmental planning manager for Australia and New Zealand at Lightsourcebp, stated, “The results promisingly indicate we are on the right track, and it is vital to work closely with farmers to deepen our knowledge in this area.”
Supporting Evidence From France Highlights Benefits of Solar Grazing
Similar studies conducted in France provide additional support for agrivoltaics. A 2024 study by INRAE (the French National Institute for Agricultural Research) alongside renewable energy producers Statkraft and CVE examined 24 sheep over two years. The researchers reported “beneficial effects, particularly on the well-being of the flock,” with improved thermal comfort and better availability of quality forage.
Véronique Deiss, a researcher at INRAE, confirmed, “The thermal comfort of the animals is improved, and the availability of quality forage is increased, among other benefits.”
Together, these studies suggest that solar farms combined with grazing animals can offer mutual benefits—supporting renewable energy goals while enhancing livestock welfare.