Evaluation of Solar Photovoltaic Systems to Shade Cows in a Pasture-Based Dairy Herd

The objective of this study was to determine the effects on grazing cattle under shade from a solar photovoltaic system. Included in the study were weather data as well as biological and behavioral measurements of the cattle. These measurements included fly avoidance and behaviors, fly counts, respiration rates, drinking activity and bouts, eating behavior, rumination and lying time. The study also collected data on use of shade by the cattle and their body temperature(s). The results of this study show that agrivoltaics may provide an acceptable method of heat abatement to pastured dairy cows, among other benefits.