Solar panels turn unused acreage into an energy asset, slashing electric bills and boosting property value. Yet location and design decisions made now dictate output for decades.
Assess Solar Potential
Walk the site with a solar pathfinder on a clear day. Record shading at hourly intervals; even a few minutes of midday shade can cut annual production noticeably. South‑facing slopes within 15 degrees of true south and less than 10 degrees steep welcome fixed‑tilt arrays. West‑oriented slopes may suit peak‑rate offset strategies, selling afternoon power at higher prices.
Size the System
Estimate annual energy use from electric bills, add 20 percent for future needs, then divide by local solar insolation hours. A modern 15‑kilowatt array covers roughly 800 square feet but plan double that for row spacing. Ground mounts beat roof mounts on barns with complex angles and allow easy snow clearing.
Construct with Care
- Racking: Driven steel posts dampen wind vibrations and avoid concrete in many soils.
- Wiring: Bury PV‑rated cable in conduit at 24 inches depth; mark runs to avoid future trench mishaps.
- Inverter location: Mount near the service entrance to minimize voltage drop.
Navigate Rules and Incentives
- Setbacks: Many counties require arrays to stand at least 25 feet from property lines and 50 feet from roads.
- Permits: Electrical inspections check conductor sizes and grounding.
- Net metering: Check whether your utility credits excess kilowatt‑hours at retail or wholesale rates.
When thoughtfully sited, solar turns sunshine into a predictable revenue stream, powering everything from well pumps to grain dryers while shrinking the farm’s carbon footprint.