New innovations in solar energy are sprouting up on a regular basis. One of those innovations is considering where and how solar panels can be built. For owners of cranberry bogs, solar power may become a viable way to earn extra income from their land and offset their own electrical costs.
The Concept of Dual-use Solar
In recent years, scientists have been studying the idea of “dual-use” solar. This is when an established business uses its space to gather solar energy without negatively affecting its current business. The studies have focused a lot on farmland, as animals can graze and crops can grow on land that features solar panels above it.
Now, studies and programs are launching on cranberry bogs. Despite the bog nature of the land itself, the concept of solar panels over cranberry bogs is seeing a lot of promise.
Solar Power and Cranberry Bogs in Massachusetts
Farms in Massachusetts have already started seeing positive results from installing solar panels above their cranberry bogs. The solar panels are erected on wooden poles instead of metal poles, differing from traditional solar panels setups. So far, the solar power generated by the panels is making the project worth it.
In 2019, the state of Massachusetts began the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) incentive which pays solar owners for every kilowatt-hour of power produced. Many farmers are now offsetting their own electrical use and selling excess electricity back to their local electric company.
Benefits of Solar Panels Over Cranberry Bogs
There are many advantages to installing solar panels over a cranberry bog. Just a few benefits include:
- Creating your own electricity – Cranberry bogs tend to be in large, open spaces so the berries can develop and grow. While solar panels will create a bit of shade over the crops, they can create tons of electricity that make operating the farm less expensive.
- Selling excess electricity – When solar panel systems collect electricity, they can’t store much of it onsite. The excess electricity is sent to the local electrical grid for use by others. Some cities and states have programs that pay farmers for their excess electricity.
- Additional funding for struggling farms – Many farmers are struggling to make ends meet and decide to sell part of their land. This can be complicated for cranberry farm owners, as a bog isn’t fit for development as residential or commercial space. Solar panels offer a different way to create revenue from the land.
- Helping create a greener planet – Solar power is one of the most environmentally friendly sources of electricity. It creates no carbon footprint and can generate electricity for years to come. Less use of fossil fuels is better for the environment and better for every farm.
The Future of Solar Power and Cranberry Bogs
So far, things are looking good for solar power and cranberry bog farmers. Studies have shown that the cranberry bogs can still yield high amounts of cranberries even when solar panels are present. The power generated by the panels typically creates more value for the farmers.
BD Electrical Services has the tools needed to create a solar panels system over any cranberry bog or farm. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you earn extra money from your land.
If you’re looking for a trusted commercial electrical company in southeastern Massachusetts, give BD Electrical a call or visit us online! 508-617-0800 | https://bdelectrical.services/
-Request More Info-
