Core Insights - The article discusses the innovative use of sheep for vegetation management at a solar facility in West Virginia, highlighting the blend of agriculture and renewable energy [1][4]. Group 1: Solar Grazing Initiative - Hundreds of sheep were utilized to maintain vegetation around 50,000 solar panels at the Fort Martin Power Station, promoting an eco-friendly approach [1][3]. - This method, known as "solar grazing," is currently implemented at 506 solar sites across 30 states, according to the American Solar Grazing Association [2]. - Approximately 350 sheep grazed at the site, with temporary fencing used to manage their movement every four to six days [5]. Group 2: Benefits and Impact - The initiative supports local farmers while reducing the environmental footprint of the solar facility, as stated by Dan Rossero, Vice President of FirstEnergy's West Virginia Generation [4]. - The Fort Martin solar site, operational since early 2024, is part of a broader solar program that includes two additional sites, totaling 30 megawatts of solar capacity [6]. - Customers in West Virginia can purchase solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) to support renewable energy initiatives [7]. Group 3: Operational Details - The sheep are effective in grazing under solar panels, where traditional mowing equipment may struggle, and they benefit from shelter provided by the panels [9]. - The sheep will return to the solar site in spring after spending winter at their farm [5].