LYONS, NEB. (RFD NEWS) — Solar energy projects are on the rise as electricity demand grows, prompting increased discussion around how farmland can be used to support both agricultural production and solar development.

Laura Priest with the Center for Rural Affairs (CFRA) joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to take a closer look at strategies for balancing energy development and agricultural land use.

In her interview with RFD News, Priest discussed the recent increase in solar development and the factors that determine where projects are sited, including broader land-use considerations.

Priest also highlighted findings from a report on how land-use tax policy can incentivize dual-use practices, outlining key themes to encourage continued agricultural production alongside solar installations. She noted that land-use policies can vary by state and discussed how those differences can influence agrivoltaic and dual-use approaches.

She also addressed the advantages for farmers who want to keep land in active agricultural production while participating in solar energy projects.

Finally, she outlined the broader takeaway for the agriculture sector regarding planning and considerations for agrivoltaic development and dual-use solar strategies.