Renewable Energy in Illinois: The Agrivoltaics Contribution

Authors: Quin E. Karhoff, A. Bryan Endres, Jessica L. Guarino, & Tyler J. Swanson

Journal: Southern Illinois University Law Review

Published: Summer 2024

Abstract

Siting of renewable energy production facilities on agricultural land often engenders conflict at the community level. The desire to preserve productive farmland and protect aesthetic connections to the rural landscape can be a significant impediment to renewable energy development. With respect to solar energy production, agrivoltaics—the colocation of solar power structures and agriculture—is a potential alternative to traditional binary approaches of characterizing land use. As a novel technological and land use strategy, a better understanding of the agrivoltaic policy environment is necessary to actualize implications for rural communities and progress toward renewable energy goals. Illinois, with its abundance in untapped renewable energy resources, highly productive agricultural land, and significant energy demand to meet the needs of its large population and economy, stands at the forefront of agrivoltaic research and development. This article identifies and analyzes key regulatory concepts in the agrivoltaic space, as well as policy observations from various stakeholder groups. The article concludes by proposing policy considerations for Illinois that may apply in similarly positioned states within the Midwest.