Solar for the Ag Community: An Agrivoltaics Workshop

Agrivoltaics, which combines agricultural and solar production on the same plot of land, can support farmers by giving them energy independence, protecting them from rising utility bills, and diversifying their revenue streams while still keeping land in production.

Join fellow farmers, ag producers and landowners for this hands-on interactive workshop to learn more.

This event is free, but registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

Event Highlights

• Agrivoltaics 101: Get a grounded introduction to how solar panels can coexist with crops and livestock, while providing energy independence and cost savings.
• Site Tour: Walk through PEC’s Community Farm for an exclusive tour of Virginia’s first crop-based agrivoltaics project (solar panels, crops, and full battery backup) installed in 2025. See the technology in action and discuss the real-world logistics of installation and maintenance.
• Solar "Speed Dating": Back by popular demand! We are adapting our successful "conservation speed dating" format to help you get moving on your specific goals. You’ll have the opportunity to rotate through tables with:
  – Solar Installers: To talk site viability, hardware, technical requirements, and site viability specific to your property.
  – Finance Professionals: To explore grants and financing options.
  – PEC Staff: Speak with the project developers and agricultural leads of the demonstration project.

Questions? Contact Montana L. Ruffner at [email protected] or 540-677-0813.

This demonstration project was completed in the fall of 2025 at PEC’s Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows in Aldie, Virginia. It is also the Commonwealth’s first crop-based agrivoltaics project!

• 17kW solar system with 23kW battery backup
• Produces enough power (130% offset) for the farm’s electricity, including well pumps, coolers, and greenhouse
• The farm can run completely “off-grid” with its solar and battery combination
• 1,530 sq ft production space = approximately 2,000 lbs, 1,667 meals
• Has experimental and control group plantings
• In-ground plantings and raised beds for replication on farms, wineries, breweries, parking lots, and brownfields
• Planted with cold-weather, shade-tolerant, non-vining crops
• Our farm staff are monitoring yield, quality, irrigation, soil

Learn more at pecva.org/agrivoltaics

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Community Farm at Roundabout Meadows, 39990 Howsers Branch Dr, Aldie, United States

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