By Jamie Martin
In an innovative study from Purdue University, researchers are examining the potential for corn, a crop previously thought to be shade-intolerant, to coexist with solar panel arrays. This research, highlighted in three recent publications, is pioneering the integration of solar energy in traditional cornfields across the United States.
Located in an Indiana cornfield, the experimental solar panels are mounted on stilts towering 20 feet above the ground—nearly four times the height of standard solar arrays. This unique setup minimizes the shade cast over the crops while maximizing both land use and solar energy capture.
This experiment is part of a broader movement known as agrivoltaics, which combines agricultural production with solar energy generation. While previous studies have successfully integrated solar panels with crops like lettuce, peppers, and even grazing for sheep, corn has been largely overlooked due to its high sunlight requirements.
The findings from Purdue suggest a viable path forward for corn growers to adopt solar technologies, potentially transforming how one of America's largest crops is cultivated.
By raising the panels higher, researchers believe that corn can thrive despite the reduced light, opening up new avenues for sustainable farming practices that also prioritize energy production.
As agrivoltaics continues to evolve, this study represents a significant step towards sustainable agricultural and energy solutions, promising dual benefits for both farmers and the environment.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-dszc
Categories: National