Farmers Harvest the Sun’s Energy & Save

How it works

Because solar panels only weigh about 50 pounds each, the roof of farm buildings can easily handle the weight. Once installed, the solar panels work seamlessly with other electric sources to provide power.

 “When I turn on a machine or light switch, I can’t tell if the energy is from the panels or electric grid,” says Breitenmoser.

 And, when the sun isn’t shining, electricity pulls from the power grid. However, research shows that northern states, like Wisconsin and South Dakota actually produce the same amount of solar energy as Florida.

 “Why not harvest this power?” asks Doug Sombke, President of FUE and SDFU.

 Sombke explains that now that the pilot the solar energy program in Wisconsin has gone well, FUE looks forward to working with Farmers Union members from North and South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana.

 Also involved in county government, Breitenmoser says he sees farmers’ use of solar energy as an opportunity to help the entire rural community.

 “Every time you pay an electric bill, and the energy is produced by coal harvested 1,000 miles away, some of what you pay leaves your community and state – however, if energy is harvested from the sun, and it saves a farmer money, that is more money a farm family is able to spend locally,” explains Breitenmoser, who serves on the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors.

 Looking to the future, Breitenmoser who is a father of five, says for him, using solar energy is the right thing to do.

 “On our farm there are plenty of places to stick money. I chose to invest in solar energy because aside from the fact that I think it’s a decent investment, I did it because I have five children and I want to set a good example,” Breitenmoser says.

 To learn how FUE can help you finance installation of solar energy, contact Dave Velde, [email protected].