FARMAFIELD LABS, LLC — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: 12e

Description

Rural areas in the United States have under-developed solar power capabilities relative to urban areas due to challenges matching energy demand centers with underutilized land and consequent cost challenges related to smaller installations that lack economies of scale. This project addresses these problems by proposing solar installations that operate synergistically with livestock production operations. These operations provide concentrated energy demand and capital alongside land and structures that are conducive for cooperation with a solar photovoltaic power system. Furthermore, the shading and shelter provided by the solar installation saves costs related to animal production efficiencies and health. In Phase I of this project, we will develop a solar panel mounting and tracking system that integrates with pre-existing concrete cattle feed bunks and can withstand the rugged conditions associated with year- round use on a cattle feedlot. This system will allow producers to offset their high electricity costs with solar power while synergistically providing shade and shelter for their cattle. In subsequent phases of the project, we will leverage our existing cattle investment platform to provide solar crowdfunding opportunities to cattle investors which will reduce solar photovoltaic capital costs for cattle producers.