Texas Farmer Scales Solar Grazing Operation Using Sheep for Weed Control

Howard now manages 10,000 sheep grazing across 40,000 acres of solar farms in Texas. The operation began when a solar developer near his property offered him a contract to allow his sheep to graze and control plant growth on the site. This method, known as agrivoltaics or solar grazing, provides income to farmers facing rising land costs and drought conditions in Texas.

Solar developers are adopting sheep grazing because it is a cheaper and lower-risk method of vegetation control than using heavy machinery and traditional mowing. This approach helps keep grass short and prevents weeds from shading solar panels or creating fire risks on large solar farms.