Texas leads the nation in both energy production and energy consumption. This includes more renewable energy than any other state, mostly from wind sources and rapidly growing solar energy development. Farmland characteristics (flat, good sun exposure, free of obstructions, near existing electrical infrastructure, etc.) make it an attractive location when siting large-scale solar projects. Like previous forms of energy production that have largely been compatible with the farming and ranching fabric of Texas despite their impacts on the land, AFT is focusing on the benefits and challenges of this solar expansion as informed by our Smart Solar℠ principles.
Projected acres of utility-scale solar photovoltaics (PV) energy generation facilities by state in 2040 in the Decarbonization with Electrification scenario of the Department of Energy’s Solar Futures Study (Source: DOE, AFT)
Safeguard land well-suited for farming and ranching.
Strengthen farm viability.
Accelerate renewable energy development.
We will achieve this by providing educational resources and outreach to farmers and ranchers, training for service providers, and working in partnerships with other stakeholders toward common goals.
