Solar energy farming in Indiana
Solar energy farming is… excuse the pun…. cropping up in Indiana! In Vigo County, one couple has installed 60 PV solar panels on the roof of their barn, which collectively produce 13.4 kilowatts (kW) of electricity. Helped by One Planet Solar & Wind, which installed the solar arrays on the barn, Dr. and Mrs. Loveall hope to bring the farm to 100% energy independence.
They are well on their way!
The Loveall farm now has the fourth-largest residential PV solar panel system in the state. The clean energy generated by the panels will provide power for over 200 acres of electric fencing, used to contain the herd of “beefalo” on the property, as well as for Lovealls’ 7,000 square foot home. At least 50% of the electricity needs will be generated, with longer, sunnier days resulting in enough solar power to actually turn the meter backwards!
So, what will the solar energy farm cost the Lovealls? How about nothing going forward? There is little to no maintenance, and they will lock in energy prices while saving at least $230,000 in electricity over the next 25 years at current energy prices. This does not include the increase in property value, which is estimated at $20 for every $1 in annual utility savings.
The Lovealls are not the only people that are engaged in solar energy farming. As shown in the following video, solar panels on this barn at the Natik Community Organic Farm generate 40% of energy needs:
One should not underestimate the benefit of locking in electricity costs now with a PV solar panel system. Some experts believe that, if a cap and trade plan is adopted by Congress, rates could go up by 40%. And, given the generous federal and state tax incentives offered for solar and other renewable energy, it really makes sense for property owners to consider switching to cleaner resources.
Getting back to Indiana, solar energy farming is not only good for the Lovealls, but the environment, too. Their PV solar panel system will prevent over 48,000 pounds of CO2 emissions.
But what if you don’t own acreage? You can still engage in solar energy farming, as shown by this property owner that has a mere 1/8 acre in Southern California:
As Dr. Loveall stated:
“I think this is the future. My own belief is that fossil fuels are finite, solar energy is infinite.”
We cannot agree more! Kudos to those who practice solar energy farming. If you are on the fence (I know, another terrible pun), its time to get off and invest in PV solar panels now!
Tags: cap and trade, indiana, PV solar panels, solar energy farming
December 24th, 2009 at 6:17 am
Great article. People are finally starting to see the benefit in getting off the grid. I suspect it won't be long before we start seeing people "farming" solar panels as a way to make money rather than just save it.