Colombian Dairy Farm Innovates with Agrovoltaic System for Sustainability

In the Quindío department of Colombia, Macana Agropecuaria, a dairy farm, has pioneered the use of an agrovoltaic system, combining solar panel installation with cattle farming. This innovative approach integrates renewable energy generation with Girolando Plus breed dairy production without sacrificing grazing land.

The project was structured in May 2024 and became operational at the beginning of this year, marking a significant step forward in sustainable agriculture in Colombia. Antonio Hincapié, the farm's manager, emphasized the importance of maintaining pasture area, stating, "We didn't want to lose a single meter of land."

The farm, which maintains around 240 cattle, including over 100 milking cows, initially installed solar panels on rooftops and buildings to reduce electricity consumption from the conventional grid. However, it has since evolved into a field-based solar farm under a distributed generation model, allowing for concurrent energy production and land use by the cattle.

Comprehensive studies on solar radiation, wind, rainfall, and the height of structures were conducted to ensure both energy efficiency and animal comfort. As a result, the cattle naturally seek shade under the solar panels, providing them with a cooler environment.

Beyond environmental benefits, the project has also created a new revenue stream for the farm. The electricity generated covers a substantial portion of the farm's daytime needs, with excess energy fed back into the electrical grid. Hincapié pointed out the importance of this additional income, especially as many dairy operations face economic challenges, saying, "We seek additional profitability by adding a second level to the lands."

Additionally, the farm's sustainability strategy includes reforestation efforts, having planted over 7,000 trees in recent years. This initiative has reduced the property temperature by one to two degrees Celsius, enhancing animal welfare. Other sustainable practices include producing organic fertilizers from bovine manure and developing a vermiculture system to restore soil fertility.

The Macana Agropecuaria experience demonstrates that renewable energy generation can complement livestock production rather than compete for land use. There are hopes that this model will be replicated in other livestock regions across Colombia and Latin America.