Study on the welfare of sheep on PV plants
Integrating solar PV systems into sheep grazing is a form of Agri-PV that benefits both agriculture and renewable energy production. The potential benefits for the sheep’s welfare include shade provided by solar PV modules and improved grazing conditions. Simultaneously, sheep maintain the vegetation around the solar PV modules, reducing the need for mechanical mowing. In a pioneering study, Statkraft, along with the French renewable energy producer CVE and research organisation INRAE, took a closer look at the effects of the presence of solar PV modules on sheep grazing from 2022 to 2023, primarily focusing on the animal welfare. The research aimed to determine if these solar installations influenced the sheep’s welfare and in particular, behaviour, health, and environment. For several months, a flock of 24 sheep grazed on a 6-hectare solar farm, wearing sensors which collected data on brightness, movement, and position. Environmental factors and observations derived from behavioural data grids provided additional insights. The results of the study indicated that solar PV modules provided shade, reducing heat stress and potentially extended grazing. Additionally, it was found that solar PV modules may protect the grass against frosts, improving grazing conditions. The sheep’s daily activities, such as grazing time or movement within a flock were not affected by the solar PV modules. The shading effect was also present. While the solar modules did not entirely prevent the sheep from feeling heat stress during extreme weather events, they mitigated the intensity of the stress and the heat load index (HLI) was lower under the modules compared to uncovered areas. Sheep health was also measured by observing possible negative changes, such as injuries, parasites, or nasal discharge. Initially, the sheep were herded using dogs, leading to stress and resulting in injuries. However, the herd management strategy was later adjusted to include dividing the plot into several zones through adapted fencing, and by grouping the sheep using food supplements to group the sheep. This new method reduced the sheep’s stress levels and prevented any further injuries.
