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3. 2024 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference

Empowering Agricultural Landowners with Tools to Evaluate the Risks and Opportunities of Utility Scale Solar Leasing

Chantel Welch

Summary

Throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond, states have set ambitious renewable energy goals with solar energy identified as a leading component in reaching 100 percent renewable by 2045. As solar siting most often happens on land that is flat with unobstructed sun, with this expansive development opportunity comes increased pressure on agricultural land.

As landowners are approached by solar developers, they need access to unbiased information on the complexity of a multi-decade lease agreement. To support landowners in their decision-making process, the American Farmland Trust’s Pacific Northwest region, in collaboration with the nonprofit farm law organization Farm Commons, created a comprehensive solar leasing guide for landowners. Walking participants through the entirety of the leasing and decision-making process, this guide provides a balanced look at the potential benefits and risks associated with participating in a multi-decade solar leasing agreement.

In this presentation, we will cover the guidebook and content, lessons learned in reaching a farming and ranching audience, and keeping up with the changing field. Participants will learn about this risk management tool and will leave with a more comprehensive understanding of the financial, production, and legal risks and of solar leasing.

Details

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