#United States #Rockville #Chaberton Energy #Agrivoltaics #Maryland Farming

Chaberton Energy Initiatives in Maryland

Chaberton Energy is embarking on an innovative project that bridges the gap between agriculture and renewable energy in Montgomery County, Maryland. The company has recently issued requests for proposal (RFPs), inviting local farmers to cultivate crops across 27 acres of land designated for agrivoltaics. This eco-friendly initiative allows solar power generation to coexist with agricultural activities, promoting sustainable practices and cheaper energy access for surrounding communities, especially amid rising energy prices.

The Agrivoltaics Concept

Agrivoltaics refers to the dual use of land for both solar energy production and agricultural activities. By co-locating solar facilities with farming, Chaberton leverages the opportunity for farmers to grow crops or graze animals underneath solar panel installations. This arrangement does not just create an additional revenue stream for farmers; it also aids in conserving agricultural land while generating clean energy to alleviate the energy crisis faced by Maryland, which currently imports over 40% of its electricity.

Collaboration with Okovate Sustainable Energy

Chaberton is not alone in this venture. They are collaborating with Okovate Sustainable Energy to select and support farmers that are interested in utilizing these agrivoltaic sites. Chaberton aims to facilitate farmer access to land at no cost, compensating them for managing the vegetation present on the site. This initiative is seen as a win-win situation, as local farmers can improve their operations while contributing to a sustainable energy future.

Vice President of Development at Chaberton, Ryan Boswell, expressed the benefits of such projects, stating, "Everyone benefits when farmers, communities, local governments, and energy developers work together toward common goals."

Project Details

The RFPs launched by Chaberton are structured to solicit proposals from farmers, emphasizing innovative ideas for utilizing the land while adhering to sustainable agriculture practices. The selected farmers will receive support from the Montgomery County Office of Agriculture to develop customized farming plans tailored to their specific site conditions.

Chaberton Solar Sugarloaf, located in Dickerson, Maryland, has a potential generating capacity of 5.23 megawatts, utilizing 19 acres in total—with 13 acres designated for agricultural use. Meanwhile, the Chaberton Solar Ramiere project in Poolesville boasts a capacity of 3.88 megawatts and spans 11 acres, of which 7 acres are available for agriculture.

Addressing Local Energy Needs

These projects stand to significantly impact the local energy landscape. Chaberton aims to provide lower-cost energy to nearly 1,000 households within the community, addressing both the rising energy prices and reducing the community's dependence on imported electricity. As Miles Braxton, CEO of Okovate, puts it, "Together we're building out the energy network we need while keeping agricultural land productive."

Participation and Future Prospects

Farmers or agricultural operators interested in these opportunities need to articulate their vision for utilizing the agrivoltaic sites in their proposals. They will also need to define their approach to vegetation management and sustainable agricultural practices. More information, including application forms, can be found at chaberton.com/RFP26.

About Chaberton Energy

Chaberton Energy has established itself as a key player in the development of community-scale energy projects focusing on distributed solar and battery energy storage. Recognized for its significant growth with accolades such as being named among Inc. 5000's fastest-growing private companies, Chaberton commits to fostering creativity, excellence, and enhanced community well-being through its innovative energy solutions.

For media inquiries, please contact Lia Morrison at [email protected] or call 412-573-9095.