US puts the brakes on solar projects being built on prime farmland

USDA said it will no longer support foreign subsidised solar farms from taking over prime agricultural land, having argued that it has made it more difficult for farmers to access land. Will UK Gov now follow suit?

Chris Brayford
clock • 6 min read
"Our prime farmland should not be wasted and replaced with green new deal subsidized solar panels. It has been disheartening to see our beautiful farmland displaced by solar projects, especially in rural areas that have strong agricultural heritage."
Image:

"Our prime farmland should not be wasted and replaced with green new deal subsidized solar panels. It has been disheartening to see our beautiful farmland displaced by solar projects, especially in rural areas that have strong agricultural heritage."

US President Donald Trump has told farmers that he will no longer support solar projects being built on prime agricultural land in a bid to strengthen the nation's food security and to prioritise food...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

Login

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

 

More on Farm Business

High Court throws out FSA 'unlawful' meat industry charges

High Court throws out FSA 'unlawful' meat industry charges

Judge backs AIMS and BMPA over enforcement rates and lack of transparency

clock 03 June 2026 • 3 min read
1400 people reject proposed beef Unit construction in Wiltshire

1400 people reject proposed beef Unit construction in Wiltshire

The buildings, set to be the size of a supermarket, have been rejected by over a thousand people for reasons such as animal cruelty

clock 03 June 2026 • 2 min read
Defra publishes its 'near final' Sustainable Farming Incentive update

Defra publishes its 'near final' Sustainable Farming Incentive update

Applications will open on June 30 for small farms, says Defra, as further details are yet to be announced

clock 02 June 2026 • 2 min read