Factors Affecting Solar System Profitability for Southeastern Broiler Growers

Using original data and a U.S. Department of Energy modeling program, we analyze how system size, photovoltaic power generation, and utility compensation affect solar system profitability on a representative southeastern U.S. commercial poultry farm. Results show that due to the poultry usage profile, when electricity buyback rates are low, system size and utility compensation are more important than solar availability in determining the profitability of a solar system for a commercial poultry grower. Also because of the usage profile, smaller systems may be more profitable regardless of solar availability. We also discuss the extent to which tax incentives and cost-share improve profitability.