Energy (Agriculture)

HB 2388 allows solar and small-scale wind energy projects to be built on agricultural lands without disrupting farming operations. It specifically defines "agrivoltaic facilities" (solar panels paired with crop production or grazing) and "pivot corner facilities" (solar next to irrigated fields) as acceptable uses, requiring projects to maintain soil productivity, allow farm machinery access, and not degrade land after decommissioning. The bill amends zoning laws to permit these projects on farmland while requiring counties to prioritize agricultural use and limit nonfarm development on suitable land. It directly affects farmers, landowners, and energy developers by creating clear rules for coexisting energy and agriculture.