The booming solar industry has found an unlikely mascot in sheep as large-scale solar farms crop up across the U.S. and in the fields of Texas

Summary

U.S. solar farms are increasingly using sheep for “solar grazing,” where livestock manage vegetation under solar panels.

This agrivoltaic practice, blending energy production with agriculture, has grown with over 60 projects across 27 states.

Sheep are ideal for navigating tight spaces under panels, offering a sustainable alternative to gas-powered mowers.

The trend boosts struggling sheep farming, with operators like Texas Solar Sheep growing rapidly.

While praised for reducing land-use conflicts, experts highlight unanswered questions about long-term environmental impacts and soil health in solar-grazing systems.