By Blake Jackson
New York State has taken a groundbreaking step towards harmonizing sustainable food production with renewable energy goals by establishing an Agrivoltaics Research Program at Cornell University. This program, championed by Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember Anna Kelles, marks a shift away from the traditional trade-off between farmland and solar panels.
Agrivoltaics, a burgeoning field, offers an ingenious solution: co-locating solar arrays with crops on the same land. This research program at Cornell's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) will delve into the optimal design and implementation of agrivoltaics across New York's diverse landscapes.
Secured through the 2024 budget, the program boasts $1 million in funding and is slated to launch this spring. It aims to provide science-backed guidance on effectively integrating various crops with solar panels, creating a win-win for both increased renewable energy generation and local food production.
Senator Hinchey emphasizes the program's potential to bridge the gap between these seemingly conflicting aims. "This innovative approach holds promise for ensuring a stable local food supply while advancing our clean energy transition," she states.
Assemblymember Kelles echoes this sentiment, highlighting the potential for maximizing farmer choices and agricultural productivity alongside solar development. "This law establishes a research program at Cornell to develop science-based recommendations and best practices for the dual use of agricultural land," she explains.
Cornell CALS Dean Dr. Benjamin Houlton expresses his gratitude for the program's establishment, recognizing farmers as crucial allies in achieving New York's renewable energy goals. "The Center for AgriVoltaics will leverage our extension networks and faculty expertise to create a dual-use economic opportunity for farmers," he affirms.
This pioneering program sets a precedent for other states grappling with similar challenges. By prioritizing scientific research and collaboration, New York is paving the way for a future where bountiful harvests and solar energy production flourish side-by-side, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system.
Photo Credit: cornell-university
Categories: New York, Energy