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https://theconversation.com/solar-farms-can-eat-up-farmland-but-agrivoltaics-could-mean-the-best-of-both-worlds-for-nz-farmers-230531>
"New Zealand plans to commission about eight gigawatts of solar photovoltaic
projects – more than the maximum power demand of the whole country on a typical
winter’s day – by 2028, according to the government’s latest generation
investment survey.
Eight of these solar farms are already operational and spread across the
country. More than 40 are in various stages of development, with the
construction of the largest single project, in excess of 150 megawatts, due to
start this year.
Solar farms are not without challenges, though. They can use up farmland and
change the rural landscape. However, we argue that more efficient farms can
integrate solar panels and agricultural production, with economic benefits for
farmers.
Given Aotearoa New Zealand’s current generation capacity of just under ten
gigawatts, the increased generation is a significant development in the
electricity sector and a positive contribution to the 2030 target of 100%
electricity generation from renewables.
However, opposition has focused on the potential changes to the rural landscape
and the use of productive soils.
This is especially because solar farms are likely to be proposed for fast-track
consenting. Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop has signalled the process will
“make it easier to consent new infrastructure, including renewable energy”.
We advocate a suitable option for New Zealand lies in “agrivoltaics” – using
agricultural land for both renewable electricity generation and farming."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
