Solar Grazing: Wood-Mode’s Newest Sustainability Strategy

Kreamer, PA (June 2024) – As a long-time sustainable manufacturer, Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry has implemented many environmentally responsible strategies. But in planning Wood-Mode’s environmental leadership, management never imagined their efforts would lead to SHEEP.

A recent benchmark in the company’s sustainability commitment was the installation of two massive solar arrays: one ground-mounted in a nearby, 16-acre field and the other a 3-megawatt solar array spanning the rooftop of a main building. Combined, the two arrays power 80% of Wood-Mode’s million-plus-square-foot facility.

When Wood-Mode planned its ground-mounted solar array, leadership decided to also adopt a nascent practice known as solar grazing or “agrivoltaics,” which is the dual use of land for solar power and agriculture. On May 17, in partnership with local farmer Jeremy Reese, Wood-Mode welcomed the first guests of the solar field – a flock of 35 hair sheep which will graze the field all summer long. 

Here Comes the Sun
The United States solar industry is growing considerably. Last year, the US added more than 32 gigawatts of capacity – enough to power 25 million homes. But this highly effective renewable resource also yields concerns that there won’t be enough cropland to feed a growing population if acreage is overtaken by roads, buildings and ground-mounted photovoltaics.

Sheep are uniquely suitable for solar grazing. They don’t climb on the solar panels or chew wires like goats are prone to do. And unlike cows or horses, they are small enough to shelter under the panels. The American Solar Grazing Association estimates that about 5,000 sheep are currently maintaining solar sites across the US.

Tending the Flock
The flock will spend the warm months this year grazing the field, eliminating the need to use a gas-powered mower, reducing cost and emissions. The land was prepped for their arrival last year when Wood-Mode spread Fuzz & Buzz, a seed mix that promotes the health of both pollinators and sheep.

“This particular group of ewes is a breeding flock and we have a ram running with them. They’ll be together throughout the summer and we’re hoping for some lambs come October,” said Jeremy Reese of Reese Family Farm. “We’re looking forward to a whole summer-long partnership with them grazing in this nice fertile ecosystem.”

“The Wood-Mode legacy was built with great respect for the environment,” says Rod Hunter, Wood-Mode general manager. “We’ve taken that belief and amplified it to meet and, in some cases, exceed today’s standards and expectations. This new partnership is a win for everybody. It’s a win for the farmer, it’s a win for Wood-Mode and it’s a win for the environment.”

To learn more about Wood-Mode’s commitment to sustainability as part of its “Five Keys to Success” initiative, please visit: https://www.wood-mode.com/experience 

About Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry
Wood-Mode, LLC, is the country’s largest manufacturer of custom cabinetry for kitchens, baths and other rooms of the home. As a company, our culture is focused on collaboration with our employees, reps and dealers. Together, we continue to build The Wood-Mode Experience. A Made in America operation, our products are marketed through a network of more than 600 independent dealers located throughout North America. Start your journey at wood-mode.com