Solar Panels on Farmland Debate | Buffalo News

New York’s farmland is at the center of a fierce debate as solar energy projects race to take root on some of the state’s most productive agricultural land. While farmers like Paul O’Mara see solar leases as a lifeline—boosting income and preserving family farms amid rising costs—others, including state Republicans, warn that fast-tracked policies are turning fertile soil into industrial sites, often without local benefit. With solar panels designed to be removable and many installations placed on less productive land, the conversation also touches on long-term land use and a broader national trend of farmland disappearing to development. The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture has weighed in, questioning the state’s approach as it tries to balance clean energy goals with its agricultural legacy. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/ef297c39b3166cce