REFA Solar Farm Tour

How can solar development help keep family farmland in the family while creating new agricultural opportunities? Join Renewable Energy Farmers of America (REFA) for a virtual farm tour featuring Meredith DeBorde of Lazy D Farm in Ennis, Texas, where livestock production and utility-scale solar work side by side.

When faced with losing part of their land to a proposed high-speed rail project, the DeBorde family chose a different path—partnering with Lightsource BP to host the Elm Branch Solar Farm. Today, they continue to own and operate their farm while grazing sheep across more than 2,000 acres beneath solar panels, demonstrating how renewable energy can support both farm viability and long-term land stewardship.

During this tour, participants will learn how the family integrated sheep grazing into their operation, the lessons they’ve learned managing livestock in a solar environment, and how agrivoltaics has diversified their business. They’ll also share practical insights on protecting livestock with guardian dogs, using drones to monitor flocks, and managing a successful sheep operation alongside cattle.

Whether you’re interested in agrivoltaics, exploring solar development, or looking to diversify your farm income, this tour offers a unique opportunity to learn directly from landowners putting these practices to work.

See how one Texas family is using agrivoltaics to preserve their land, strengthen their operation, and build a more resilient future for the next generation.