The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are hosting virtual listening sessions for agricultural producers and the public on January 16, 2024, and are inviting perspectives on the benefits and challenges of the rapidly increasing levels of solar and wind energy being sited on agricultural lands and in rural communities. This is a challenge that is already occurring in rural areas and communities across Arizona.

As our nation’s electric power demands increase, solar energy deployments are projected to accelerate. According to a 2021 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) study, solar energy may rise from 4% of our nation’s total energy production to 45% by 2050. Increasing solar generation to 45% could require nearly 10.4 million acres, with 90% expected to be sited in rural communities.

We strongly encourage Farm Bureau members who are concerned about this issue or have first-hand experience to participate and share their thoughts and concerns during the listening sessions. Understanding and addressing these concerns is vital to ensuring that farmers, ranchers, and rural communities have the opportunity to make informed land-use decisions.

To participate in listening sessions, register at the links below.

  • Agricultural producers on Jan. 16, 2024, at 8 – 9:30 a.m. Arizona Time.

Agriculture Producers, Register Here

  • All stakeholders and members of the public on Jan. 16, 2024, at 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Arizona Time. 

All Stakeholders, Register Here

Stakeholders may submit written comments by Jan. 20, 2024, to SM.RD.CleanEnergySiting@USDA.gov .

Additional information can be found in USDA’s Stakeholder Announcement.