Farming the Sun: A Study on Solar Energy and Rural Life in Alberta and Tuscany
Summary
This study is about how people in rural areas are adjusting to new solar energy projects and farming with solar panels, called agrivoltaics. We want to talk to farmers, landowners, and others in the community to see how these changes are affecting their land, jobs, and everyday lives. Your stories will help us understand the challenges and disagreements that come up, as well as the possible benefits of these projects. By listening to local people, we hope to make better plans for the future. Our goal is to respect the needs of the community and find a way for farming and energy to work well together.
Eligibility
Eligible ages: 18 to 99
Accepts healthy participants: Yes
Inclusion criteria:
You can take part in this study if:
- You live or work in a rural area of Southern or Central Alberta (for example: Vulcan County, Foothills County, Ponoka, Cochrane, Camrose, Innisfail, or Vegreville), or in the Tuscan provinces of Livorno, Grosseto, Siena, or Pisa.
- You are involved in farming, ranching, or own rural land — or you work in the renewable energy sector (for example, solar project planning, development, or outreach).
- You are part of a cooperative, environmental group, or non-profit organization focused on land use, rural development, or energy transition.
- You have experience with solar energy projects or farming with solar panels (agrivoltaics), either on your land or in your community.
- You are at least 18 years old.
Participate
Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research
Collection of personal information
Your personal information is collected under
the authority of section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. If
you have any questions about the collection or use of this information, please visit our
Access to Information page.
Additional information
Contact information
Anna Bettini Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Calgary
Principal investigator:
Petra Dolata
Clinical trial:
No
REB-ID:
REB25-1042