Studies have found that several crops have higher yields when grown in the shade of solar panels. In many cases, these crops also require less irrigation because the shaded soil loses less water.
Full-sun crops can still be planted in the space between the solar panels, and farmers can also make extra money from selling renewable solar energy to utility companies.
The idea of combining solar panels with agriculture (called “agrovoltaics”) began in Japan, where it is much more popular. However, the concept is beginning to catch on in other countries.
“We’re really just at the very beginning of understanding the benefits
of agrivoltaics and what they could mean not only for the energy sector
but also for the agricultural sector.”
Thanks to @theorangedead for sending this in!