Land & Liberty Coalition and Conservative Energy Network Explore the Future of Agrivoltaics at Iowa State University

Last week, members from the Land and Liberty Coalition and Conservative Energy Network (CEN) toured the Alliant Energy Solar Farm at Iowa State University to see firsthand how renewables and agriculture can thrive side by side.

The visit offered a close look at how the site integrates agriculture within and around solar panels, a practice known as agrivoltaics. The research team is exploring how a variety of crops grow in this environment, including vegetables like peppers and broccoli, fruits such as raspberries and grapevines, and even pollinator habitats for bees. These diverse plantings not only provide valuable data for research, but also demonstrate how solar farms can support local food production and biodiversity. 

“Agrivoltaics represents the kind of collaborative solutions we need here in Iowa,” added Land & Liberty Coalition Iowa Field Director, Thomas Bean. “By combining traditional agriculture practices with renewable energy, we are not only creating new economic opportunities but also maintaining the rural character of our communities.” 

This educational tour was designed to showcase how agrivoltaics are enhancing farming practices, benefitting farmers and rural communities, and creating opportunities to advance energy development in the communities putting America first. 

“Seeing solar and agriculture working side by side shows how innovation can help landowners maximize the use of their property,” said Land & Liberty National Director, Bradley Pischea. “Agrivoltaics opens the door for farmers to keep their land productive while supporting local energy generation.” 

This tour is just another example of how our best American innovators continue to drive advancement in the communities that matter most and how they are giving crops of all varieties a chance to grow - be it to energize themselves or their community.