Big Lake Farm demonstrates agrivoltaics in Minnesota

The Big Lake Farm in Minnesota is demonstrating the viability of agrivoltaics, a method that integrates solar power generation with traditional agriculture. Located in Big Lake, the project utilizes a 1-megawatt solar array where crops are grown in the spaces between and around the solar panels.

This initiative is a partnership between the Minnesota-based nonprofit The Food Group, U.S. Solar, and Conexus Energy. The model provides farmers with affordable land leases while maximizing the utility of solar farm acreage. Following a successful pilot in 2023, the project has transitioned to a permanent arrangement, with participating farmers signing 10-year leases.

Infrastructure such as irrigation systems and walk-in coolers has been implemented to support the agricultural side of the operation. The project aims to show that solar energy and farming can coexist effectively, even as federal support for emerging farmers faces recent budget cuts.