Clackamas County to prioritize agrivoltaics in new solar ordinance discussions

Agrivoltaics emerged as a pivotal topic during the June 25, 2025, meeting of the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council in Washington, as local leaders voiced concerns over the Carriger solar project’s lack of integration with agricultural practices. Advocates highlighted the potential of agrivoltaics—combining solar energy production with agricultural use—to maintain farmland productivity while meeting the state's energy needs.

One council member passionately argued that raising solar panels to allow for agricultural operations beneath them is essential. “When we take farmland out of production for solar, we are not looking to our future,” they stated, emphasizing the need for solar projects to coexist with agriculture. The member expressed disappointment that the Carriger project did not incorporate agrivoltaics, suggesting it could hinder local acceptance of solar initiatives.

The council is currently developing a new solar and dust ordinance aimed at incentivizing agrivoltaics in future projects. Under this proposed ordinance, solar projects that do not include agricultural components would face stricter limitations, such as a cap on impervious surfaces. The member noted that the Carriger project currently fences off about 60% of its area, which could be more acceptable if it allowed for agricultural use underneath.

Despite the push for solar energy, there is significant local opposition to the Carriger project, with many residents feeling overlooked in the decision-making process. “The voice of the people is also important,” the council member remarked, acknowledging the mixed sentiments within the community regarding solar development.

As the council moves forward, the integration of agrivoltaics could play a crucial role in balancing energy production with agricultural sustainability, shaping the future of solar projects in Washington.