U.S.-based Leeward Renewable Energy is strengthening its use of solar grazing to merge renewable power with agriculture, part of a broader push to cut emissions and improve land health across its projects.
At its solar sites, LRE uses sheep to control vegetation, keeping grass and weeds low to prevent shading that cuts panel efficiency.
The practice, known as solar grazing, restores soil, prevents erosion, supports pollinator habitats and reduces operational costs.
It also extends bloom cycles that benefit local ecosystems. The company said this method reflects its long-term approach to land stewardship.
“We work with experts in soil science, ecology and regenerative agriculture to develop vegetation management plans that promote biodiversity,” said Willem van der Ven, LRE’s chief operating officer, in a statement.
“By embracing solar grazing and other innovative practices, we are helping create long-term value for the land, our local partners and the broader environment,” van der Ven added.
Certification and Training
LRE will host a certification session next month at its Morrow Lake Solar site in Frio County, Texas, in partnership with the American Solar Grazing Association.
The program will cover sheep care, grazing strategies, safety protocols and site design. It will also teach best practices for collaborating with local grazers and integrating livestock guardian dogs.
Open to employees at all levels, from site technicians to senior executives, the training will help expand industry knowledge of agrivoltaics, a combination of farming and energy production.
Broader Commitment to Innovation
The initiative highlights LRE’s reputation as an innovator. Earlier this month, Fast Company named the company one of its 2025 Best Workplaces for Innovators for the second year in a row.
Chief Executive Jason Allen said the recognition highlighted LRE’s culture of creativity and its role in shaping the future of clean energy.
“Innovation is at the heart of our growth and success,” added Becky Fisher, the company’s human resources chief. She said fostering collaboration has helped employees deliver bold ideas with real impact.
Growth and Market Position
Founded in Texas in 2003, LRE owns and operates 30 wind, solar and energy storage projects across the United States, with a combined capacity of 4 gigawatts.
The company is targeting 10 GW of operating assets by 2028 as it works to meet growing U.S. demand for clean power.
In addition to renewable generation, LRE emphasizes job creation, domestic supply chains and long-term community partnerships. Its latest move into solar grazing shows how utility-scale developers are finding new ways to combine energy production with sustainable land use.
Also Read:
US Solar Recycler SPR Expands Capacity with New Technology, Plant Expansion
