Smart Sheep House Solar Power Generation

Do solar panels make sheep grazing better?

Tom Warren lets his sheep run between the solar panels. (ABC Rural: Hannah Jose) Sheep grazing under solar panels at farms in NSW's Central West have produced better wool and more of it in the four years since the projects began, according to growers.

Are sheep better than goats on solar farms?

There are a few reasons sheep are the superior choice for grazing on solar farms. For one, they are shorter than cows and horses. They will also eat most kinds of forage, which helps keep plant growth at bay. Goats, on the other hand, will chew pretty much anything, which is a bit of a risk on solar farms.

Are ewes on a solar farm?

These animals, owned by Cannon Valley Graziers, aren’t on a sheep farm. They are visiting a solar farm and — after their date with the shearer — they are here to work. Freed from the pen, several ewes congregate under nearby solar arrays, chomping away at weeds and grass.

Is grazing cattle under solar panels a good idea?

There is growing interest in grazing cattle underneath solar panels. This year, the Energy Department launched the Large Animal and Solar System Operations (LASSO) Prize, providing millions of dollars for research around solar development and cattle grazing.

Why do sheep walk between photovoltaic panels at Azure Sky?

Sheep walk between rows of photovoltaic panels at Azure Sky. Shade under the panels enhances the quality and quantity of forage while providing relief from heat for the livestock. Editing by Bronwen Latimer.

Is sheep grazing a profitable business?

Sheep farmers say their meat sales aren’t as profitable as beef, chicken or pork. Wool adds some income, but not a lot. However, Hark said this is an opportunity to generate extra income by offering not just goods, but also a service. “Solar grazing adds another farm enterprise to the equation,” he said.