ISU, Alliant Energy solar farm caretakers showcase agrivoltaics results

By Brooklyn Draisey, Iowa Capital Dispatch
Sep 5, 2024
Sep 5, 2024

Agrivoltaics 1.jpg — Iowa State University Agrivoltaics project lead professor Ajay Nair picks strawberries at the Alliant Energy Solar Farm at Iowa State Sept. 4.
Iowa Capital Dispatch photo by Brooklyn Draisey

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By Brooklyn Draisey, Iowa Capital Dispatch

Solar panels shone in the light of a clear sky Wednesday morning, Sept. 4, occasionally clicking as they followed the sun’s path. Tucked underneath and around the array’s structure were plants — peppers, strawberries, raspberries, and grapes; even the beginnings of prairie plants, grass and clover.

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Agrivoltaics 2.jpg — Agrivoltaics project lead professor Ajay Nair speaks with Department of Energy Chief of Staff for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Katie Hendrickson on Sept. 4.
Iowa Capital Dispatch photo by Brooklyn Draisey

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Agrivoltaics 3.jpg — Alliant Energy Strategic Partnerships Manager Nick Peterson, left, Iowa State University professor Matt O’Neal and Agrivoltaics project lead professor Ajay Nair speak at the Alliant Energy Solar Farm at Iowa State on Sept. 4.
Iowa Capital Dispatch photo by Brooklyn Draisey

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