Greece is experiencing a boom in “solar sheep farming”: Demand for shepherds is growing rapidlyand the salaries of such “specialists” were equal to the rates for doctors, lawyers and senior engineers.
More and more solar energy operators in Greece adding a second business to electricity generation – sheep breeding. “Solar sheep farming” is one of the options for agrovoltaics, that is, the combination of agriculture and photovoltaics (solar energy). Such coexistence of the ancient craft of cattle breeding and new energy provides synergy across multiple factors.
Sheep + electricity: what are the benefits?
Solar panels cover the ground from the scorching rays of the hot southern sun and slow down the weathering of the soil, so any solar power plant quickly becomes overgrown with grass. It is logical to introduce sheep into the power plant, which eat this vegetation, which prevents the panels from generating electricity.
Beneficial for both energy workers and farmers: The power plant saves on vegetation mowing services. Sheep also remove vegetation more carefully than agricultural machinery, which often damages panels.
Because power plants are usually fenced off, sheep are not at risk from predators such as bobcats, wolves, coyotes, and others. the population of which in Greece is now quite large. The sheep themselves feel better in the shade of solar panels than in an open meadow. Besides, dual use of land allows you to save on rent.
Scientists have carried out calculations for several business models sheepvoltaicsand in each case the possibility of obtaining high profits was confirmed. These calculations are confirmed in practice: the income of Greek photo shepherds on average 2-3 times higher than the income of ordinary shepherds.
There are problems too
Despite all the advantages of such a business, it has difficulties that you need to learn how to effectively solve. Firstlysolar power plants do not have the water the sheep need: it has to be transported by truck, which is a significant expense. Secondly, Although sheep farming on solar farm sites is profitable, crop farming has proven to be even more profitable.
Nevertheless sheepvoltaic is at the initial stage of its development. It will be interesting to watch how this direction develops.
Our publication previously reported that nand wolves appeared in Taygeta, which had not been there for almost a hundred years, and 40 sheep were torn to pieces. Breeders are worried.
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