Frequently asked questions.

  • Solar farms generate electricity using large arrays of photovoltaic panels, which convert sunlight into DC electricity. Inverters then convert this into AC electricity, which is fed into the national grid to power homes and businesses. The layout and angle of panels are optimized for sun exposure, and the system requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.

  • Solar farms require flat, sunny land—about 2 hectares per megawatt. Projects typically start from 15 MW (around 30 hectares). Proximity to the grid is essential to minimize transmission costs.

  • Yes, sheep and goats can graze under solar panels in what’s called “solar grazing.” This dual-use approach boosts land productivity and income for farmers.

  • A solar farm typically lasts 35–45 years. After that, the site can be either repowered with new panels or fully decommissioned, with panels and equipment removed and recycled.

  • It connects to either the national electricity grid or operates behind-the-meter, supplying power to nearby users directly.

  • Yes. While output is reduced, solar panels still generate electricity in overcast conditions and during winter.

  • No. Solar panels are safe and emit no harmful radiation or pollution. They are used globally on residential rooftops.

  • They are composed primarily of silicon (from sand or quartz), glass, anti-reflective coating, and an aluminum frame. About 90% of a panel’s material can be recycled.

  • Panels are designed with anti-reflective coatings and installed at angles that minimize glare. Strategic placement and setbacks also reduce visual impact.

Solar Technology

  • Wind farms use turbines to capture wind energy and convert it into electricity. As wind turns the blades, they spin a generator that produces clean, renewable power for the grid.

  • Open, elevated terrain with consistent wind patterns is ideal. Wind farms are often located on ridgelines or coastal areas and can coexist with farming or grazing activities.

  • Each turbine requires spacing to avoid wind interference—often hundreds of meters apart—so a 100 MW farm may spread across several hundred hectares, though most of that land remains usable for agriculture.

  • Turbines do produce sound, but modern designs are quieter and typically located far from homes. Extensive research shows no direct health impacts from wind farms when proper guidelines are followed.

  • Yes. Wind turbines are compatible with farming. Livestock can safely graze right up to the base of turbines.

  • Wind farms generally operate for 25–35 years. After that, turbines can be repowered with new technology or decommissioned and removed.

  • Yes, due to their height, wind turbines are often visible from a distance. However, careful site selection and consultation aim to minimize visual impacts.

Wind Technology

    • Long-term lease income

    • Utilization of underproductive land

    • Opportunity for dual use with grazing

    • Risk diversification for farming income

    • Support for environmental leadership

  • Yes. The land can be restored post-decommissioning, and the solar or wind farm's presence may improve soil health due to reduced intensive use.

    • Energy independence

    • Local job creation

    • Increased clean energy generation

    • Economic development in rural areas

    • Progress toward net-zero and 100% renewables goals

  • Yes. Construction creates short-term employment (12–24 months depending on scale), while long-term roles exist in operations, maintenance, and land management.

Economic Benefits

  • They displace fossil fuel generation, significantly cutting greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. They use no water for generation, emit no carbon during operation, and leave a light environmental footprint.

    • Tap into abundant natural resources

    • Enhance national energy security

    • Preserve land and biodiversity

    • Decentralize energy production

    • Support clean tech innovation and regional investment

    • Energy independence

    • Local job creation

    • Increased clean energy generation

    • Economic development in rural areas

    • Progress toward net-zero and 100% renewables goals

  • No. There’s no evidence of damage to crops or soil from solar or wind installations. In fact, land may benefit from lower intensity use and improved biodiversity.

The Environment