VW has a solar park with over 100 sheep as natural mowers, but for the Wolfsburg company, they are a symbol of the energy transition.
What is the significance of the sheep? Volkswagen supplies one of its plants in Poznań (Poland) with a large photovoltaic system consisting of over 31,000 solar modules. However, the operation of the system is associated with complicated and costly maintenance, as a humid climate often prevails under the modules of the solar park, allowing certain grasses and shade plants to grow extremely well.
These plants need to be mowed frequently, as if they grow too tall, they can protrude into the radiation area and thus reduce energy production. However, mowing itself involves a high effort because the machines have to operate between the metal supports and equipment.
Therefore, VW is following the example of various international companies and has been allowing around 100 sheep to graze under and between the modules as part of a so-called agri-photovoltaic initiative since April. The quadrupeds are essentially natural mowers and are thus used in landscape maintenance.
Sheep as a Symbol of the Energy Transition
What is supposed to be proven now? VW and the company Quanta Energy, which is responsible for the operation of the solar facility, are working with the University of Natural Sciences in Poznań to investigate the extent to which agri-photovoltaics affect the well-being of the animals and the functioning of the entire ecosystem.
For example, it is being examined whether the shadow cast by the modules reduces the heat stress of the animals and changes in the microclimate, vegetation, and soil are analyzed. Subsequently, solutions will be found that facilitate an effective combination of energy generation and agricultural activities.
Initial findings of the study show that the sheep are adapting well to the new conditions. The University of Natural Sciences has observed, for example, from the behavior of the herd that the animals feel safe.
VW itself sees in the project more than just a way to increase its own energy independence and reduce CO₂ emissions with the sheep as natural mowers. In a press release, the Wolfsburg company writes:
“The sheep grazing project shows that modern energy infrastructure can fulfill far more functions than just simple power generation. At a single location, it combines the energy transition, the protection of biodiversity, support for local agriculture, and the expansion of scientific knowledge.” – Source: vw-press.pl
A study conducted over 3 years in Australia with 1,700 Merino sheep showed that grazing under solar panels does not negatively affect wool quality. You can read the full article here on MeinMMO: In one country, 1,700 sheep were examined that graze between solar panels – with surprising results
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