As a leader in solar we at Innovative Solar Systems LLC (ISS), help to provide a new crop for farmers to cash in on. There has been major growth in the popularity and advances in solar over the past several years.
According to the WSJ “Some 90,000 farms used solar equipment as of 2017, according to the USDA, three times the number using solar panels in 2012.” With the downturn in crop prices in recent years, many farmers are embracing an alternative source of income, solar power. “Prices for corn, soybeans, and wheat are all trading around their lowest levels since 2010.” Even worse record rains this spring made it difficult for farmers to plant a successful crop.
“Farm bankruptcies, known as chapter 12 filings, increased 13% in the first half of this year to the highest level since 2012, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation.” With family farms struggling with less income interest has turned to solar. “Farmers have two options for adding solar power on their farms: lease land for energy companies to generate power to funnel electricity into the grid… or install their own solar panels to cut their electricity bills.”
Where crop prices are continuing to lower, the potential for solar is only expanding. Many states and cities are looking to be powered by 100% renewable energy over the coming decade. Progressive legislation is also being passed around the country to reach this goal. If you would like more information about Innovative Solar Systems LLC and our utility-scale solar farm projects, please call 828-424-7884 or visit innovativesolarsystemsllc.com.