In A Contest Between Solar & Ethanol, There Is One Clear Winner - CleanTechnica

The article from CleanTechnica argues that solar energy is a far more efficient and environmentally friendly use of farmland compared to ethanol production. It highlights data showing that solar farms use land more efficiently, produce less pollution from fertilizer runoff, and reduce soil erosion, while also providing farmers with a drought-resistant income source. Contrary to common criticisms, solar installations are not the primary cause of farmland loss; between 2013 and 2021, only 5% of farmland was converted to energy production (including solar), whereas 68% was lost to housing developments. Moreover, solar farms can be reverted back to agricultural use after their operational life, unlike permanent housing developments. The article also addresses misconceptions about renewable energy reliability, emphasizing the rapid advancements and cost reductions in battery storage technology. It cites examples such as solar plus battery systems stabilizing the Texas grid during extreme heat, countering the myth that renewables are unreliable due to intermittent sunlight and wind. In contrast, coal-fired power plants face frequent, costly outages