How Solar Panels Affect Soil Health

Adding solar production can diversify income streams and reduce overall operating costs for many farmers. Additionally, solar panels are used for various purposes, such as running equipment and powering well pumps. For example, solar panels help reduce concerns about watering crops during power outages.

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However, like many farmers, you may be concerned about large solar arrays’ potential impact on soil health.

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Let’s look at what current research says about the subject.

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Impacts of Large Array Construction on Soil Health

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The US Department of Energy offers a guide to help farmers make informed decisions about solar panels. According to their research, adding solar panels may have some effects. Evidence suggests that trace amounts of photovoltaic panel chemicals have little to no impact on soil health.

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One European study showed that large solar arrays affect the soil’s physical and chemical characteristics. Additionally, the soil under panels was up to 10 degrees cooler than soil without cover, producing lower levels of CO2. Considering the increasing temperatures in many prime agricultural regions, this is positive for soil health.

Effects of Solar Panels on Water Distribution

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Significant research has studied the interaction of PV arrays and soil health. Multiple studies confirm that soil under ground-mounted panels holds more moisture than the surrounding soil.

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Also, plants growing there produce a cooling effect, which helps solar panels operate more efficiently. Solar panels’ effect on soil moisture can help increase energy independence and reduce water consumption while boosting crop yields. Another area to examine is the redirection of runoff from panel surfaces. When channeled properly, this rainwater can be used for irrigation, further reducing demands on your farm.

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Integrating Grazing With Solar Panels for Improved Soil Health

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Researchers have examined using the land under solar panels for small grazing livestock.

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Sheep, in particular, thrive in these conditions. In addition to improving soil quality, pollinator-friendly vegetation under panel arrays helps increase crop yields.

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According to one analysis of solar grazing sites, the soil under PV panels had higher levels of nitrogen and carbon without compaction compared to similar, non-grazing locations.

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A Solar Partner to Grow with

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At Lifestyle Solar, we help people with differing needs make informed decisions about solar energy. Strategically placed solar panels can help you to take control of your livelihood without compromising soil health.

Reach out today–we’d love to learn more about your operation!

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What You Need to Know Before Adding New Solar Panels to an Existing System

Sometimes, you’ll outgrow the original solar system installed on your roof, and you might need to add some more panels to meet your additional electricity needs. Some common reasons to expand your solar panels are getting an electric vehicle, installing a battery, electrifying your home, or making home upgrades like an addition or a new pool.You may not know where to begin if you think you need more solar. Don’t worry - we cover everything you need to know about adding more solar panels to your existing solar system and if it’s always the right choice.

Why You Should Clean Solar Panels and the Best Ways to Keep Them Spotless

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your rooftop solar panels is crucial to maximize their energy production and prolong their lifespan. Dirty solar panels can significantly reduce efficiency and potentially damage the panels over time. By understanding why solar panels get dirty, recognizing the consequences of neglecting their cleanliness, and employing the best cleaning practices, you can ensure optimal performance and reap the full benefits of your solar investment.

Solar Panel Repairs and Servicing: Keeping Your System Working and What to Do When it Doesn't

If you own or lease a solar system, you no doubt did the math and figured that the energy generated by the solar panel system would reduce your electric bill enough to provide you with a good return on investment. This makes sense. In most states, solar panels can produce an ROI that outpaces long-term returns from other investments such as property or shares. According to Zillow, solar panels can also add about 4% to the value of your home over and above the monthly electric bill savings they generate.However, like any technology, solar panels require regular servicing and occasional repairs to maintain optimal performance. Without that, your solar system may not operate at its full potential, and all that nice math goes out the window. This can leave you in an infuriating position of having to pay both a monthly solar lease or loan payment and also a full electric bill until the system is fixed. When it comes to getting your system fixed, for most people, this will mean a simple call to their solar installer. However, things can be a little more challenging for those whose solar company is either out of business or is not responding to their calls. This is where many solar system owners have been left in the lurch, and their systems are referred to as “solar orphans”.If you have found yourself in that position, the good news is that there are now specialist solar repairs and servicing companies that have explicitly started to service the needs of solar orphans at a relatively low cost. In this article, we will explore the importance of solar panel servicing and repairs, the common issues that can arise, how often you should be servicing your solar system, how to tell if you have a fault, and how much solar repairs and servicing costs.

How Solar Panels Affect Soil Health

Read our other posts

What You Need to Know Before Adding New Solar Panels to an Existing System

Why You Should Clean Solar Panels and the Best Ways to Keep Them Spotless

Solar Panel Repairs and Servicing: Keeping Your System Working and What to Do When it Doesn't

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