Sheep Grazing Keeps Solar Farmland Productive in Michigan

By Andi Anderson

As solar energy development continues to expand across farmland, new approaches are showing that agriculture and renewable energy can work together. In Michigan, a sheep producer is demonstrating how solar fields can remain active agricultural landscapes through managed sheep grazing.

During an educational virtual session hosted by a university extension program, a livestock producer shared lessons from grazing sheep on more than 330 acres at two large solar energy sites. With years of farming experience and a background in livestock care, he recognized that solar fields traditionally maintained through repeated mowing could instead support grazing animals.

Introducing sheep to solar farms requires detailed planning. Large fenced solar areas must be divided into smaller grazing sections. Flocks are rotated carefully, and sensitive equipment such as transformers must be secured. Reviewing site layouts in advance and understanding road access and panel spacing are essential steps before animals arrive.

Water supply and fencing were early challenges. Portable water systems and internal electric fencing were installed to support controlled grazing. Over time, forage under the solar panels grew better than expected. Shaded conditions helped retain soil moisture, lowering water needs and reducing stress on fences.

For animal performance, results were strong. “The productivity of the ewe out on the solar farm was phenomenal. Ewes maintained their body condition on the forage and milked like no tomorrow. Their lambs grew phenomenally.” These results showed that solar grazing can support healthy livestock and efficient meat production.

Managing relationships with solar operators is also critical. Solar sites follow strict safety and access rules. Grazers must follow federal regulations, report site entry and exit, and meet detailed contract requirements. “You’re not just farming anymore,” the producer explained. “You are now abiding by safety regulations and working as a service provider.”

Insurance planning is equally important. Solar grazing often requires coverage beyond standard farm insurance, especially for off-site work and infrastructure protection.

From a business view, grazing services must compete fairly with mowing. Costs such as labor, travel, equipment, and insurance must be planned carefully.

Despite challenges, solar grazing keeps farmland in use and helps meet livestock demand. “They’re not making any more land,” the producer said. “If we can keep this ground productive and feed sheep on it, that’s still agriculture.”

As awareness grows, solar grazing is expected to expand, offering benefits for farmers, energy developers, and local communities alike.

Photo Credit: istock-shansekala