As energy costs rise across Canada, more farmers are turning to Solar Energy Farms as a practical and sustainable solution to power their operations. By installing solar panels on rooftops, barns, or unused sections of land, farms can produce clean, renewable energy to offset their electricity needs — helping reduce operational expenses while promoting long-term sustainability.
Can Solar Energy on Farms Damage Agricultural Land?
One of the most common misconceptions is that solar harms farmland. In reality, solar energy systems are designed to complement, not compete with, agricultural production.
Panels can be mounted on rooftops or elevated structures, leaving valuable cropland untouched and fully usable. Ground-mounted systems can also be strategically placed on non-arable or marginal land, ensuring that prime soil remains dedicated to growing crops or raising livestock. This dual-use approach, often referred to as agrivoltaics, allows farmers to harness the sun’s power without sacrificing their productive acreage.
Why Are Farmers Installing Solar Across Ontario?
Financially, the impact of solar on farm operations is significant. Solar Energy Farms can cut electricity costs by up to 60–70%, depending on system size and energy consumption. With rising hydro rates in Canada and increasing equipment costs, this reduction in overhead can dramatically improve profitability. In addition, renewable energy incentives — including tax credits and rebate programs — allow farmers to reap the benefits without hefty investment costs.
Beyond savings, solar brings greater energy security and independence. Farms can operate more reliably, even during grid outages or peak rate periods, while lowering their carbon footprint — an important step toward climate-smart agriculture.
We’re here to work with farmers to design a system that fits your energy needs. Connect with one of our solar specialists to check out how much you can save with solar power.
