American Farmland Trust (AFT) is working to ensure solar energy development in Texas strengthens farm viability and safeguards land well-suited for farming and ranching through its Smart Solar℠ initiative. In 2024, AFT surveyed nearly 200 farmers, ranchers, and landowners across 89 counties to understand their views on solar development. The results reveal both opportunities and challenges: while many see solar leases as a means to support family operations and generational transitions, concerns remain about impacts on farmland preservation, tenant farmer access, and long-term productivity. Agrivoltaics, particularly solar grazing, emerged as a promising way to keep land in agriculture while creating new business opportunities and supporting pathways to land access.

The findings of this report highlight the need for clear, trusted guidance on leasing and agrivoltaics options, as well as thoughtful siting to protect working lands. These insights will guide AFT’s efforts to provide Texas producers and landowners with the tools and support to make informed decisions as solar development continues to grow across the state.