Researchers at the University of Minnesota’s West Central Research and Outreach Center at Morris have installed solar panels that generate power and also provide cooling shade for cows and heifers.
Power generation is the solar panels’ main purpose, of course. But positioned 8’ to 10’ above the ground surface, the panels can provide shade for 30 to 40 cows under one structure . . .
Source: Dairy Herd Management, September 10, 2018. Link.
Seeking a net zero energy use is the primary objective for the solar panels and accompanying wind generators. Still, Brad Heins says, “It will be interesting to see if the shade provides enough cooling to support more milk production.”
INSIGHTS: I can’t help but wonder if panels could be used as windbreaks or snow fences in the winter months.