Vegetation management utilizing sheep grazing within utility-scale solar: Agro-ecological insights and existing knowledge gaps in the United States

Abstract/Summary:

Common themes exist in the development of photovoltaic (PV) systems, globally. Capturing sunlight for energy production requires a significant land-use footprint, thus resulting in limitations that prohibit development of solar sites. Diverse regions across the U.S. are being utilized for PV development with varying population density, climate, and forage production potential. Energy usage is expected to grow with increased demand from industrial and residential segments. Internationally, the U.S. ranks second in energy usage and is the primary contributor to the growing energy demand. As utility-scale solar installations continue to expand across the U.S., and specifically pastures and rangelands, the need for sustainable vegetation management has become a critical operational consideration. Grazing with sheep presents a viable solution, offering both economic and ecological benefits by controlling vegetation growth without compromising (PV) panel efficiency.