Astronergy and RCR Green Power Up 7.2MW Ashburton Solar Farm in New Zealand

Astronergy, in partnership with RCR Green, successfully powered the 7.2MW Ashburton Solar Farm in the Canterbury region of New Zealand using 11,750 pieces of ASTRO N5 n-type solar technology modules.

Connected to the grid in early December 2024, the innovative solar farm is expected to generate approximately 10,870.13 MWh of clean electricity annually to meet the needs of over 2,500 households. The project is a great example of developing dual purposes of land use. It functions as a sheep-based agrivoltaic system and provides a fertile environment for sheep grazing as well as crop cultivation.

According to a research conducted by a solar grazing association, sheep-based agrivoltaic systems have several advantages. During the daily operation, sheep help reducing weeds and lowering the system maintenance costs.

Furthermore, studies show that sheep raised in environments with shades under solar modules could result in improved wool quality.