NC State University and Nevados Unveil Southeast’s First Agrivoltaics Training Site, Advancing Renewable Energy and Agricultural Innovation

North Carolina State University, in partnership with solar technology company Nevados, officially inaugurated the Southeast’s first dedicated Agrivoltaics Training Site with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a preview of its upcoming professional training programs.

The new facility positions NC State as a regional leader in agrivoltaics — the dual use of land for solar energy generation and agricultural production — and serves as a hands-on learning environment for students, solar technicians, and energy professionals.

A First-of-its-Kind Renewable Energy Training Hub

Located on NC State’s campus, the Agrivoltaics Training Site features three rows of Nevados’ TRACE All Terrain Tracker system and three types of solar modules. The site is designed to train participants in solar grazing, system installation, and operations and maintenance practices for livestock-integrated solar farms.

“This new solar training site is a testament to the power of partnership,” said Dr. Chris Frey, Associate Dean for Research & Infrastructure at the College of Engineering.

He highlighted the collaboration between the NC Clean Energy Technology Center, the Department of Animal Science, and Nevados, noting that the initiative strengthens NC State’s leadership in clean energy and agricultural innovation.

Supporting Solar Deployment on Challenging Terrain

Nevados, known for its advanced solar tracking systems, emphasized the significance of offering hands-on training for its TRACE All Terrain Tracker, a system designed to operate efficiently on steep or uneven ground with minimal land disturbance.

“The TRACE All Terrain Tracker is remarkably fast to install,” said Yezin Taha, CEO of Nevados.
Taha added that the new training center allows developers, EPCs, and installers to gain real-world experience with the tracker system in a region where many Nevados customers are located. The facility also strengthens ongoing research and education in agrivoltaics.

Industry Support and Training Opportunities

The project was made possible through more than $100,000 in donated equipment and services, including solar modules from Boviet Solar, Nevados’ solar tracking system, and installation services from CF Solar, noted Steve Kalland, Executive Director of the NC Clean Energy Technology Center.

The facility will also support the launch of a new course, “Agrivoltaics in Action: Enhancing Operations and Maintenance in Livestock-Integrated Solar Sites,” planned for Spring 2026. The program aims to equip solar professionals with skills needed to manage grazed solar installations, including electric fencing, guardian animals, and sheep-based vegetation management.

Advancing Solar Grazing and Agricultural Benefits

The site will play a critical role in training students, farmers, and solar operators on best practices in solar grazing — a rapidly expanding field at the intersection of renewable energy and agriculture.

“Grazing sheep on solar farms offers a multitude of benefits,” said Dr. Andrew Weaver, Assistant Professor of Animal Science. He cited reduced mowing requirements, improved vegetation management, farmland preservation, and new income streams for local sheep producers.

Weaver noted that the training site represents a significant step toward a more resilient and profitable future for sheep production in North Carolina and beyond.