As a farmer or rancher, you undertake the most important work there is.
You produce the food and resources to fuel our country . . . and the world.
And in ensuring our country’s survival, you need power.
But electricity rates are constantly increasing, eating into your already unpredictable profit margins.
And in a capital-intensive industry with low margins and so many factors out of your control – like the weather and markets – dependable energy is crucial.
Thankfully, you have options . . .
Options to lower your energy costs and minimize your dependence on the utility company.
What’s the best option?
Well, many have turned to solar.
Solar panels for farms and ranches:
- Significantly reduce your operational costs
- Boost your profits
- Give you a return on your investment
Let’s take a closer look.
Solar Can Reduce Operational Costs
Between pumping water for irrigation and heating and cooling your livestock, electricity can be one of the most significant expenses involved in operating your farm.
Because of the fluctuating rates that power companies impose, your farm or ranch could spend thousands of dollars on energy.
Depending on the type and number of solar panels you choose, your farm or ranch could become completely independent of utility providers.
This means you’d no longer be hostage to continual rate increases.
Take Advantage of Solar Panels Agriculture Incentives
While the upfront cost involved in installing solar panels can be a hurdle, it’s not insurmountable.
Over the last decade, the cost of solar energy systems has decreased by 89%.
Furthermore, the federal government, as well as state and local governments, offer incentives to individuals and businesses that install solar panels to help offset the initial cost:
Provides grants to agricultural producers and rural small businesses up to 25% of total eligible project costs or a combined grant and loan up to 75% of total eligible project costs.
Rural small businesses and agricultural producers who invest in energy-efficient improvements may qualify for a loan up to 80% of total eligible costs with an interest rate below market value to fund the purchase.
You can claim the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) on federal corporate incomes taxes for 26% of the cost of your system (including system + labor costs) during the tax year.
This reduces the amount that you have to pay in federal income tax for the year.
Some states offer their own tax credits, helping you save even more by claiming federal and state credits.
- Rebates
After you buy your system, you may be eligible for a partial refund.
Rebate programs are run by local governments and other organizations and require you to fill out some paperwork regarding your purchase.
Solar Panels Provide Extra Benefits
When you decide to switch your farm or ranch to solar power, you have several choices on where to install the panels.
While they can certainly go on the roof of a building, you can reap benefits from installing them in a pasture.
Here, solar panels:
- Provide shade and cover to your livestock and birds while grazing when positioned high enough
- Protect your soil by blocking the wind and limiting erosion
- Preserve soil nutrients and water
- Save your irrigation water from evaporating
- Provide habitat and food for bees and butterfly pollinators
Solar Panels for Farms Do Not Prevent Conversion Back to Agricultural Land
Solar panels are warrantied for up to 25 years and backed by the best manufacturers in the world when you choose the right provider.
And at the end of the panels’ lifespan, you may decide to convert your land back to agricultural use.
That’s no problem.
A Partner to Power Your Profits
Solar panels for farms and ranches are eligible for various federal, state, and local incentives.
When added up, these incentives can potentially cover 45 – 80% of your overall system cost.
You can immediately lower or eliminate your electricity cost by switching to solar, improving your margins and bottom line to sweeten the deal.
Don’t feel powerless and stressed anymore.
We’d love to discuss your energy needs and find the perfect solar solution to power your profits.
