Sheep Make The Case For Solar Power In Deep Red Coal State

The article highlights the gradual emergence of solar power in West Virginia, a state traditionally dominated by coal energy and ranked last (#50) in solar capacity nationwide. Despite a slow start and historically minimal solar development—with only about 10.52 megawatts in 2020 and modest growth since—there are signs of change. A notable development is a proposed 100-megawatt solar plant in Brandonville, which has been fast-tracked by the state’s Public Service Commission. However, resistance from real estate interests and fossil fuel stakeholders remains a significant barrier, as some local opposition favors preserving land for housing and traditional farming rather than solar projects. A unique aspect of West Virginia’s solar transition is the integration of agrivoltaics, particularly solar grazing with sheep. Unlike other land uses that permanently replace farmland, solar power plants can coexist with agricultural activities, allowing sheep to graze beneath solar panels. This practice supports soil health and allows the land to be reused for farming after the solar infrastructure’s