Researchers Find an Unexpected Benefit of Putting Sheep on Solar Farms

Solar grazing, where sheep feed on vegetation around solar panels, offers a method for vegetation management. New Cornell University studies examine the ecological and financial considerations of this practice, which can also create opportunities for rural jobs and investment.

One study tested how different sheep stocking rates affect beneficial insects. At two sheep per hectare (roughly one per 1.2 acres), the combined abundance of wild bees, honey bees, and lady beetles was 38% higher than in mowed control plots, with honey bee numbers specifically 83% higher.

However, increasing the sheep density introduced trade-offs. Doubling the rate to four sheep per hectare improved vegetation control, yet beneficial insect abundance was similar to mowed areas. At eight sheep per hectare, which achieved the strongest vegetation control and maintained flock health, honey bee abundance reportedly fell by 45%.

These findings suggest a need to balance vegetation management goals with ecological impacts on insect populations. A second study developed a spreadsheet-based tool to help farmers plan flock size, purchases, and sales by weighing financial demands against expected vegetation at individual solar sites.