A new documentary from the American Solar Grazing Association (ASGA) spotlights a growing movement that is transforming both agriculture and renewable energy. “Pastures and Panels” tells the story of farmers and ranchers revitalizing family farms by grazing sheep on solar energy sites, creating a resilient model that produces food, fiber and energy for the nation — all on the same land. The film is now streaming on YouTube.
A still from the documentary “Pastures and Panels”
Solar grazing is the practice of raising livestock on land that is also generating solar energy. It turns solar projects into productive ranches that maintain vegetation naturally while helping feed and clothe Americans through the production of meat and wool.
According to ASGA’s 2024 Solar Grazing Census, more than 130,000 acres of solar are being grazed by sheep across 30 states. The potential is even greater. The United States currently imports more than 70% of the lamb it consumes. By expanding solar grazing, farmers can strengthen domestic agriculture and bring more of that production home.
The film follows families such as Daniel Dotterer’s in Pennsylvania, whose farm dates back to the 1700s. After decades of economic struggle, Dotterer found a new way forward by using sheep to manage vegetation on large solar sites.
“It’s not just grazing,” Dotterer says in the film. “It’s a new way to farm — one that’s sustainable, profitable, and gives the next generation a chance.”
Solar grazing provides ranchers with access to land that was previously unavailable or too costly to rent. Now, solar project owners pay livestock producers to manage vegetation, offering steady income while maintaining agricultural production. This partnership is helping family farms stay viable and, in many cases, expand.
Solar grazing benefits energy companies as well. Real-world data from operating sites shows that grazing is cost-competitive with mowing and can reduce maintenance costs over time. Sheep are highly effective at controlling vegetation while supporting healthy soil, pollinator habitat, and local land-use goals. It is a practical solution that benefits both the land and the bottom line.
Solar grazing is also drawing younger farmers and more women into agriculture. ASGA’s 2024 Census found that over one-third of solar graziers are women, and the average age of participants is younger than the national average for farmers. By pairing ranching with solar, farmers are keeping multi-generational farms alive and building stronger local economies for the next generation.
The documentary “Pastures and Panels” is now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9CY0IpkLNFY
