Ames Community Solar Project, SunSmart

Located in Ames, IA

The City of Ames faced a challenge: how to make solar energy accessible to residents who couldn’t install solar panels on their own property. The goal was to create a solar farm within city limits that would provide clean energy, reduce carbon emissions, and offer a sustainable solution for the community. However, maintaining the site with traditional methods presented its own set of difficulties, particularly in balancing environmental impact with operational efficiency.

In 2020, the Ames Community Solar Project, SunSmart, was brought to life. Located between Highway 30 and Airport Road, this 2-megawatt solar farm was designed to generate enough electricity to power approximately 440 homes annually. To maintain the site sustainably, the City of Ames introduced an innovative solution: a flock of 50 sheep now graze the solar farm, naturally managing vegetation and eliminating the need for mowing. This eco-friendly approach not only preserves the site’s functionality but also enhances its environmental benefits.

The SunSmart project is a testament to Ames’ commitment to sustainability. Over its 20-year lifespan, the solar farm is expected to offset the environmental impact of 113 million miles driven by car and reduce CO2 emissions by about 57,000 tons. By integrating sheep into the maintenance plan, the project further underscores a holistic approach to renewable energy and land stewardship, turning the solar farm into a model of innovative, sustainable practices.