FREELAND, Md. — A proposed solar farm in northern Baltimore County could become one of Maryland’s first agrivoltaic projects, integrating crop production with renewable energy generation.

Relevant and timely article: Commentary: Legislation would help Iowans save on electric bills

Community solar can provide power and infrastructure upgrades where it is needed most, and power closest to where it is consumed by the community. Most importantly, community solar lowers the cost of electricity bills for subscribers.

If we put solar on top of farmland we reap incredible rewards. Landowners get competitive land lease rates for ~40 years. Meanwhile, farm viability is ensured in the long run, with a farming stipend that would otherwise go to lawnmowing under the array.

FREELAND, Md. — Building a solar farm can often mean taking up many acres of land - but a farm in northern Baltimore County hopes to get a new kind of solar array that will allow it to keep crop production going.

Between September and December 2024, the Lightstar team, in partnership with local organizations in Detroit, hosted a series of neighborhood meetings to collaboratively shape the City’s Phase I Solar Neighborhoods program. These community gatherings provided a space for neighbors from Gratiot-Findlay and State Fair to share their visions, preferences, and ideas for the solar arrays soon to be integrated into their neighborhoods. Together, we explored landscaping and fencing options, presenting various designs for their thoughtful input. Residents cast votes for their favorite designs, which helped us finalize a landscaping plan that reflects their collective voice.

‘Twas the Night Before Solar Succes

Deep in the UP, an abandoned mine could offer hope for green energy fights.

Brianna Fiorillo, Policy & Strategy Manager, Midwest at Lightstar weighs-in.

Lightstar’s own Kelly Buchanan, Policy & Strategy Manager, East, shares information on NJ Enacts 200-MW Dual-solar Pilot Program

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities has approved a three-year pilot program to create 200 MW of dual-use solar capacity that puts solar panels on functioning farmland in a precursor to a permanent program. 

Relevant and timely article: For jobs and survival, Michigan needs community solar now

Michigan lawmakers are considering Senate Bills 152 and 153 to enable community solar, allowing all residents to access clean, affordable, and reliable energy, regardless of income or housing status, and creating thousands of jobs in the state.

Great article from Energy News Network: As the world continues to turn towards renewable energy sources, there has been a growing concern over the impact these projects may have on agricultural land. Farmers rely on their land for their livelihood, and losing valuable farmland to solar farms can be devastating. However, one Illinois farmer found a way to turn this potential conflict into a mutually beneficial opportunity through agrivoltaics.

Did you know the global capacity for solar energy could cover more than 100 times the world’s current energy use? Now imagine harnessing this power to simultaneously boost agricultural productivity. 

Agrivoltaics, a groundbreaking concept that combines agriculture with photovoltaic technology, is transforming landscapes by integrating solar panels with crop cultivation. This innovative approach not only enhances energy efficiency but also sustains agricultural output. Coupled with community solar initiatives, agrivoltaics offers a strategic path towards sustainable development, engaging local communities in renewable energy adoption. 

Lightstar Teams Volunteer at Aldermere Farm and Erickson Fields: Maine Coast Heritage Trust’s agricultural preserves in Rockport, helping to feed the Midcoast community.

Agrivoltaics is the next frontier of the clean energy transition! Rutgers, American Farmland Trust and other New Jersey stakeholders have been hard at work leading the agrivoltaics industry towards further research and commercial deployment that will benefit farmers, local food production, and clean energy goals simultaneously. On Thursday, October 10th, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities will provide an update on the dual-use pilot program rules. Lightstar is anxious to see this program opened and for the benefits of agrivoltaics to be accessed more widely in the Garden State. 

Solar development is increasingly recognized as a substantial contributor to the renewable energy sector. Yet, the path to achieving environmentally responsible solar projects is layered with complexities. From my roots as an environmental consultant to my current role as a solar development manager, I've navigated this terrain by balancing the dual imperatives of preserving local environmental and community character with renewable development needs.