Solar Power for Remote Locations

Solar cells, which produce electricity directly from sunlight, were originally used to power satellites. In recent years, however, the performance of solar cells has been improved and their cost greatly reduced. Today, solar power systems have become practical for many locations that are at a distance from a power line.

Farm applications of solar power include: pumping drinking water for livestock, powering a radio-controlled farm gate, aerating a grain bin, aerating a fish pond to maintain oxygen levels, maintaining batteries in equipment, and using drip irrigation for seedling Christmas trees. At our Agronomy Day tent exhibit, we will discuss these applications.

Bill Peterson, Associate Professor Emeritus
Department of Agricultural Engineering
(217) 333-0511; whpeters@illinois.edu
Sponsor: Energy and Recycling Section, Illinois Dept. of Commerce & Community Affairs

Back to Tent Exhibits Index

Department of Crop Sciences
College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
University of Illinois Extension