Michigan State University researchers and MSU Extension educators are evaluating the potential of agrivoltaics — which combines agricultural operations with solar energy production — in Michigan.

Agrivoltaics systems place solar panels directly in the field, either arranged several feet above agricultural activities or in rows to allow for crops or animals to be between them. The goal is to continue producing an agricultural commodity while gaining another revenue source for the farm through solar energy.

Proponents of agrivoltaics tout the dual use of agricultural land, which can allow for plant and animal agriculture operations to coexist with solar energy production and the ability to use such energy on the farm.