How to Start a Solar Energy Farm
The US currently has approximately 2500 utility-scale solar energy farms. This kind of solar energy farm is larger in scale and owned by a utility company, directly.
But what about community solar energy farms? Can individual citizens make moves to harness solar power on a larger scale?
The answer is, in most cases, yes. Community-based solar energy farms are growing in popularity, and you may be able to start one in your own community.
How can you get started on a solar energy farm? Read on to find out.
Generate Interest
Community solar energy farms are solar farms that supply multiple households with energy. If you want to start one in your community, you’ll need to find enough interested property owners to purchase or lease a share of your solar farm.
Generating interest isn’t hard. Sustainability, alone, will attract many interested shareholders. When more property owners find out about solar savings, you’ll have dozens of interested parties.
Calculate Energy Needs
How many solar panels will you need for your solar energy farm? First, you’re going to need to calculate the energy needs of all shareholders. This can be measured in kilowatt-hours.
Then, you will need to cross-reference this number with the solar panel production capabilities in your area. That way, you can see how many kilowatt-hours each solar panel will provide.
Lease the Land
It’s time for a little more calculating! Once you know how many solar panels you will need, you can start thinking about land needs. Many community solar energy farms require only a few acres of land.
The good news is that you don’t need to lease land that is 100% undeveloped. If you do, you don’t have to leave it that way.
One of the best ways to maximize the environmental friendliness of your solar energy farm is to cultivate the land. Making large pollinator wildflowers or growing food crops are two community-friendly options.
Find the Right Solar Contractor
Now that you have a plan, it’s time to get the ball rolling! The cost of solar panels has gone down exponentially in the past decade and the more you install, the lower the price per panel. Finding a solar contractor that offers reasonable prices shouldn’t be difficult.
That being said, you still want to pick the right contractor for the job. Head to blueravensolar.com/virginia/ to get an idea of what a good solar contractor can offer.
Start a Solar Energy Farm In Your Community and Go Green
Starting a solar energy farm is a great way to benefit yourself and your community. Not only can solar power help you go green, but it can save you money and push your community in the direction of job creation and a sustainable future. Follow these steps and you can switch to solar power this year!
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