Lawmakers Debate AB-1156 While Farmers Demand Action on Water and Land Use
California farmers are raising serious concerns over Assembly Bill 1156, introduced by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks of Berkeley, which would allow the installation of solar panels on prime agricultural land. Nick Papagni, known as “The Ag Meter,” reports that the bill has sparked backlash among those who fear the state’s most fertile farmland could be lost to energy development.
Opponents argue that the bill is a misguided attempt at renewable energy expansion that sacrifices the nation’s food supply. Farmers warn that California’s productive soils—vital for growing food—should not be converted to industrial solar use, especially at a time when water issues are already threatening agricultural viability.
“Water is the lifeblood of California agriculture,” Papagni emphasized.
This year, California’s snowpack was an astounding 232% above average, yet farmers remain skeptical about long-term water availability. Many blame government mismanagement, citing that none of the $7.5 billion from 2014’s Proposition 1—intended for water storage—has been spent on actual infrastructure.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins weighed in, stating,
“It’s important for the fabric of America that we’re not selling away this farmland for solar panels.”
Critics of the solar bill also point to international concerns, referencing Italy’s decision to halt solar development on farmland until its impact on food quality is better understood. Additionally, there are environmental concerns about the inability to recycle solar panels once they’re no longer in use.
As California legislators weigh the merits of AB-1156, farmers and advocates continue to urge for policies that protect water access and preserve farmland for its intended use—growing the nation’s food.