Farmers are now permitted to cover up to 70% of areas used for laying hens with photovoltaic panels on elevated systems, while ground-level systems are capped at 50%.
Lower Saxony's Agriculture Minister, Miriam Staudte (Greens), highlighted the benefits of this dual-use approach in conventional free-range farming. It not only optimizes ecological and economic land use but also creates positive synergy effects. The photovoltaic systems can protect the animals from predators and hail, and, with the right setup, improve rainwater distribution. Additionally, they offer a cost-effective way to produce energy while promoting animal welfare and maintaining vegetation cover.
This dual use of land not only contributes to climate protection but also enhances animal welfare, as the photovoltaic modules provide shelter for the birds from rain and intense sunlight. However, it wasn't until the EU's Delegated Regulation 2023/2465, passed in autumn 2023, that this practice was allowed, provided local authorities approve.
In Lower Saxony, this approval has now been granted. The Ministry of Agriculture has directed the State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES) to accept up to 70% coverage for elevated systems and 50% for ground-level systems. This decision enables farmers to install photovoltaic modules over free-range areas used for laying hens.
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