Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Song Mi-ryeong stated on November 6 that "agricultural solar power should not replace agriculture but should provide new income opportunities for farmers while sustaining agricultural practices."
The Ministry held the "Agricultural Solar Power Coexistence Event" at Osco in Cheongju on the same day. The event was organized to explain the purpose of the upcoming Agricultural Solar Power Business Act, which will take effect on December 17, and to enhance understanding among stakeholders.
Agricultural solar power is gaining attention as a key means to enhance rural sustainability and facilitate energy transition by providing new income opportunities for farmers while continuing agricultural production.
The Agricultural Solar Power Business Act was established in June after gathering various opinions from agricultural organizations and experts. The government is preparing to implement it by establishing subordinate regulations, which will require that at least 80% of the area designated for solar power generation be used for agricultural purposes. The Ministry plans to specify procedures for soliciting resident opinions, methods for community participation cooperatives, and ways to return profits from solar power generation to local residents.
Farmers raised questions regarding preparations and considerations for the project, as well as installation standards for power generation facilities. In response, a Ministry official emphasized the need for thorough preliminary reviews by farmers, stating, "Since agricultural activities and power generation projects must be conducted concurrently over a long period, adequate prior assessment is essential." The official also noted that once the subordinate regulations are established, the Ministry will provide information on meeting qualifications for power generation projects and the specific permitting process through standard manuals, training, and promotional activities aimed at farmers and local government officials.
Additionally, the Ministry advised that when installing power generation facilities, compliance with standards such as a shading rate of less than 30%, a minimum structure height of 2.5 meters, and a spacing of 4 meters between supports is required.
Minister Song Mi-ryeong stated, "Based on the diverse opinions presented at this event, we will develop guidelines for agricultural solar power and training for farmers to promote the establishment of a farmer-centered agricultural solar power system. We will actively promote the agricultural solar power system to ensure it leads to tangible results in the field and will continue to collaborate with relevant agencies and local governments for stable implementation of the system."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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