David Voigts.

Farmers today face many challenges from high overhead costs and low commodity prices to the threat of climate change that may limit yields in the coming decades. However, a new revenue source may be on the way. Vertical, two-sided solar panels are being tested in farm fields at several sites. Vertical solar panels have the advantage of taking up less room, so they are compatible with farming operations instead of replacing crops. Also, they are placed in north-south rows so they catch more sun energy on their east side in the morning and their west side in the afternoon. This offsets traditional, horizontal solar panels that are most efficient during midday.

While vertical solar panels are best suited for low crops like soybeans and hay, tall growing corn could shade the panels and reduce their efficiency. Possible remedies include placing panels on structures above the corn or by planting a dwarf corn variety. Dwarf corn is currently being tested because it has the promise of maintaining yields with less water and fertilizer.

While much more study is needed, vertical solar panels have the promise of increasing farm income while combating climate change by providing electricity without using fossil fuels.

David Voigts is a retired ecologist and the current Conservation Chair for the Prairie Rapids Audubon Society. He is a Tama County native, graduating from Dinsdale High School, and lives in rural Jesup on his wife’s family farm.