The startup develops utility-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) farms that integrate agrivoltaic systems, enabling simultaneous agricultural use of land while generating renewable energy. This approach facilitates the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources, addressing land use conflicts in energy production.
Funding
$7M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
New Zealand's transition to carbon-zero energy sources faces challenges related to land use conflicts and the need for sustainable energy solutions that integrate with existing agricultural practices. Traditional utility-scale solar farms can sometimes displace agricultural activities, leading to concerns about food production and land stewardship.
Solution
Lightyears Solar develops and manages community-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) farms that integrate agrivoltaic systems, enabling the simultaneous use of land for both renewable energy generation and agriculture. These solar farms connect to local distribution networks, providing daytime energy to communities while allowing for continued agricultural activities such as grazing. By partnering with landowners and employing innovative design, Lightyears Solar maximizes land use, improves soil health, and provides an additional income stream for farmers, contributing to a resilient and sustainable energy future. The company also offers technical consultancy services to organizations seeking solar-powered solutions.
Target Audience
Lightyears Solar serves landowners seeking to optimize land use, businesses and corporations pursuing sustainable energy solutions, and investors interested in renewable energy projects.
Features
- Designs and constructs utility-scale solar PV farms integrated with agricultural land use (agrivoltaics)
- Manages projects from site assessment and feasibility studies through construction and commissioning
- Provides technical consultancy for organizations seeking solar-powered solutions
- Offers Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) enabling businesses to source renewable energy directly from solar farms
- Partners with landowners to maximize land use and provide additional income streams
- Connects solar farms to local distribution networks to meet community energy needs