Solar farms are a great way to turn unused farmland into an investment. Although these projects are beneficial for producing clean energy, there are many myths surrounding them. Let’s examine these misconceptions and the facts that refute them.
Myth: Solar farms destroy productive farmland
One of the most common misconceptions is the widespread belief that solar farms destroy usable farmland. The most common locations for solar installations are farms that are marginal, unsuitable for agriculture, or underutilized. However, there are some farmers who practice Agri-PV.
This method combines solar panels with flowering plants for pollinators or vegetation that supports grazing herds. When approached strategically, solar farms offer an alternative to harmful agriculture. They generate additional income and at the same time rejuvenate the soil.
Myth: Solar farms lower the value of nearby properties
Fears that solar farms could impact property values are largely unfounded. Many studies conducted by major real estate companies show that nearby solar installations generally have little to no negative impact. In fact, property prices tend to stay the same or even increase due to reduced energy costs and local tax benefits.
Myth: Solar farms only work in constant sunlight
It is assumed that solar power can only be generated in regions with abundant sunlight. In fact, there is no need to worry about cloudy skies or shorter winter days. Thanks to technological developments, solar panels are now more efficient than ever when it comes to generating electricity from daylight (not just direct sunlight).
Myth: Solar farms are not a smart financial choice
When solar farms are leased to a solar developer, the maintenance effort for the owner is very low. The solar company takes care of all installation and maintenance processes. The best part is that the electricity generated by the panels can provide a form of long-term income.
Many contracts increase earnings by a certain percentage each year, with contract terms lasting up to 50 years or longer. If you’re looking for a way to diversify your income, a solar farm could be ideal. Solar farming is one of the easiest ways to make money without constant work.
Solar farming can increase sales in several ways. This includes leasing land to a solar developer or selling electricity back to the grid. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) are also profitable. Tax incentives and subsidies, in addition to annual benefits, can make investing in this process affordable.
Myth: Solar farms require a lot of maintenance
As previously mentioned, solar farms do not require much maintenance on the part of the landowner. The solar company cleans and inspects the panels regularly to ensure they are working efficiently. While conventional farms incur increasing maintenance costs, solar farms require little work and provide consistent returns.
Myth: Solar farms harm local wildlife and ecosystems
If carefully planned, a solar farm will not harm wildlife or the local ecosystem. Instead, it can contribute to its ecological health by creating natural habitats and supporting soil health. For example, many solar farming projects include native plants and wildflowers that attract pollinators. This results in a stronger soil structure, which reduces erosion and leads to better water management. Wildflowers also limit the growth of invasive weeds, minimizing maintenance around the panels.
Myth: Building solar farms requires more energy than they produce
It typically takes one to three years for a solar farm to produce enough energy to meet the energy needs of its construction. This is a concept known as energy payback period. Their high efficiency is one of the best renewable energy technologies currently in use. Solar panels generate far more energy than they use over their 25- to 30-year lifespan.
Myth: Solar farms are noisy
Some people mistakenly believe that solar farms are noisy due to the constant humming and mechanical clattering. The truth is that the only noise they make is a low hum, similar to a household refrigerator. Compared to industrial machinery or traffic, the noise is almost silent.
If you have any questions about solar farms, contact our team at Solar Liberty. We have around 20 years of experience in installing and maintaining solar parks. The best part is that you don’t have to incur any out-of-pocket costs when planning and installing the system.
You can sit back and relax while enjoying a steady income from the energy your country produces. Contact Solar Liberty now to know the truth about solar farms in various Northeastern areas such as NY, Pennsylvania and Ohio. We also provide commercial service in areas such as Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, New Hampshire and Maryland.
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