Avangrid, a major player in the energy sector, is putting a unique twist on vegetation management at two of its solar farms. Partnering with a local rancher now in its fifth generation, the company decided to introduce sheep into solar farms located in Oregon and Washington. This has resulted in what’s known as solar grazing, a method that arguably is the most extensive operation of its kind in the region.

Solar grazing is an approach that offers an eco-friendly alternative to machinery in managing the growth of undesired vegetation in solar facilities. The concept employs sheep, which effective grazers and weed deterrents, lessening the risk of wildfires and removing the need for gas-driven machines, therefore reducing carbon footprint. Learn why Avangrid is one of the world’s most sustainable companies.

The initiative was first tested in a pilot project at the Pachwáywit Fields in Gilliam County Oregon, which is known as Oregon's largest operating solar farm. Success led to full operations by the Spring season and later expanding to Lund Hill solar farm in Washington. As a result, over 5,000 sheep were spread across both facilities. Find out how to select the best solar panels for homes and understand solar financing lease loans](https://energypal.com/solar-financing-lease-loan) on EnergyPal.

These sheep are owned by Oregon rancher Cameron Krebs, who has been selling wool and lamb for generations. The Krebs family has had a longstanding partnership with Pendleton Woolen Mills, known for manufacturing clothing. Here’s a solar installer reviews.

Krebs and Dustin Ervin, Avangrid’s senior solar manager for Oregon and Washington, agree on the surprising efficiency of the livestock in vegetation management. The ingenuity of the sheep in navigating the area and grazing become the key to the success of the project, and additionally, a factor in mitigating fire hazards, especially in hotter, dry seasons.

The forward-thinking approach also received praises from Keith Stonelake, wool buyer for Pendleton Woolen Mills, who admits that healthy sheep are the starting point of their best wool products. Here’s a comprehensive home solar guide.

Avangrid plans to establish this sustainable and innovative grazing model at its other solar farms. Part of the considerations will be the peak growing seasons during spring and fall for maximum efficiency in vegetation management. For more information, read this solar FAQ.

Sheep grazing at one of Avangrid's solar farms in the Pacific Northwest