Solar farm trial shows improved fleece on merino sheep grazed under panels

Sheep grazing under solar panels at farms in NSW's Central West have produced better wool and more of it in the four years since the projects began, according to growers. Key points: Sheep grazing on solar farm trials shows an increase in wool quantity and quality There are calls for more research on the co-location of agriculture and renewable energy A NSW government review of agriculture and renewable energy has received 100 submissions Local graziers have labelled the set-up a "complete win-win", with the sheep helping to keep grass and weeds down so as not to obscure the panels. NSW Energy Minister Matt Kean said he "would consider any opportunities to improve existing frameworks, such as a coexistence of solar and wind with farming". Mr McGirr said the idea of agriculture and solar farms co-existing without any impact on the land or production was "over-sold".