Solar graziers often work directly with the site’s O&M team when managing vegetation on solar sites. To provide insight on working successfully with site operations teams, we heard from Angela Burke, the Director of Operations and Maintenance at Pivot Energy. Angie covered topics related to vegetation maintenance requirements, safety protocols, and what to expect when working with O&M teams. 

During the presentation, Angie covered why safety protocols are essential for solar grazing and the requirements for PPE. Strict adherence to safety protocols protect both humans and livestock while maintaining effective vegetation management. Additionally, clear guidelines ensure smooth coordination between graziers and asset owners, and helps meet industry standards and insurance guidelines. Required PPE includes hard hats, safety boots, and eye protection, which graziers must provide for their workers. The PPE requirements may vary based on specific tasks being performed, and should be outlined in contracts.

Next, Angie covered who determines safety requirements. Asset owners provide baseline requirements within their contracts. O&M managers oversee compliance, and employees are responsible for proper use.

Solar sites can present unique hazards that require specific attention. Graziers should never touch solar equipment, cables, or electrical boxes. They should report issues, but are not authorized to attempt repairs. Graziers should be aware of uneven terrain, row ends, drive aisles, and drive shafts.

Angie also covered ways to minimize risk on solar sites. Job Hazard Analyses (JHA) are completed at least seasonally, and before major operations, to identify site-specific hazards. Check-in protocols should be implemented, and communication channels should be up to date.

This workshop highlighted the importance of regular communication. Advance notice of when sheep will arrive or leave a site helps asset owners plan for vegetation maintenance. Additionally, graziers serve as boots-on-the-ground informants, and should report any equipment issues and provide periodic reports of vegetation conditions.

Solar asset owners have specific expectations for vegetation management. Graziers should maintain vegetation between the agreed-upon minimum and maximum heights. A hybrid approach can be utilized when needed to manage vegetation not consumed by sheep. Graziers may consider offering additional services for areas outside of fence lines.

Angie also covered business benefits and contract best practices of solar grazing. Solar grazing can lead to long-term partnerships and establish a diversified revenue. Contracts should have a clear service scope, outlining the responsibilities for grazing, mowing, and perimeter management. Additionally, communication protocols and insurance requirements should be defined. By maintaining solid contracts and communication, graziers and asset owners can have long-term partnerships.

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Pivot Energy is Certified B-Corp based in Denver, CO and is an independent power producer that owns and operates 3.5 gw of solar sites throughout the U.S. They have sheep grazing on 98% of their solar sites.

For additional background on how solar developers approach vegetation management, view the summary and recording of our April workshop, What Makes an Ideal “Vegetation Management Specialist”: What Traits are Solar Companies Looking For?