Stacie Peterson Joins the American Solar Grazing Association as Executive Director

The American Solar Grazing Association (ASGA) is proud to announce that Stacie Peterson, Ph.D., a recognized leader in agrivoltaics and energy, will serve as its new Executive Director. With her extensive expertise in environmental engineering, sustainable energy, and community engagement, Stacie is poised to expand ASGA’s reach and elevate its impact as the leading voice of solar grazing in the United States.

Stacie was introduced as Executive Director at ASGA’s 5th Annual Membership Meeting on Sunday, March 2nd.

Advancing Solar Grazing and Agrivoltaics

ASGA President and Spring Creek Farm owner Nick Armentrout praised Stacie’s leadership: “Stacie Peterson’s vast experience as an agrivoltaics researcher, convenor, and advocate uniquely qualifies her to lead ASGA into the future. With over 130,000 acres of solar grazing in 30 states last year alone, ASGA is at a pivotal moment of growth. Stacie’s strategic vision and deep expertise will enhance our ability to support farmers and industry stakeholders in realizing the full potential of solar grazing.”

As a nationally recognized leader in agrivoltaics, Stacie previously served as the Director of the AgriSolar Clearinghouse and Director of Energy Programs at the National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT). She has developed and led national, regional, and state-level energy programs that engage communities, support rural businesses, and provide vital education and technical assistance.

Her leadership in building the AgriSolar Clearinghouse established the premier knowledge hub for agrivoltaics and cultivated a network of over 40 partners, bringing together agriculture leaders, solar industry professionals, academics, and nonprofits. She has also spearheaded innovative community engagement initiatives, including a sold-out 20-stop tour of agrivoltaic sites across the country. An example of her work to advance agrivoltaics can be seen in a CBS Saturday Morning segment:

Solar grazier and ASGA Board Member Dan Finnegan of Solar Shepherd, LLC spoke to Stacie’s commitment to supporting farmers: “Stacie builds programs supporting environmental land management concerns and sustainable energy, always with an eye towards connecting farmers with opportunities. She's a perfect fit to help ASGA continue as the leading farmer-focused agrivoltaic trade and training organization in the country.”

A Vision for ASGA’s Future

Stacie expressed her enthusiasm for the new role: “I am honored and excited to join ASGA as its next Executive Director. Having worked alongside ASGA for the past five years to support and advance agrivoltaics, I know firsthand that its certifications, research, technical assistance, and resources are second to none.

As a farmer-founded and farmer-led nonprofit, ASGA is uniquely positioned to shape the future of solar grazing and agrivoltaics. I look forward to leading the organization with a focus on excellence, science, and trusted partnerships, ensuring that we continue to make a lasting impact. We are stronger together.”

ASGA Board Member and Director of Agrivoltaics and Land Management at Lightsource bp, Lexie Hain, echoed this sentiment: “Stacie’s background in energy and agriculture, combined with her success in securing major federal opportunities, makes her an outstanding leader for ASGA. She is a strategic thinker, excellent writer, and coalition builder. The ASGA board is excited to work with her to propel agrivoltaics and our organization to new heights.”

Stacie holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Montana Tech and a Ph.D. from the University of Montana in Interdisciplinary Studies. Her research integrates environmental science, public health, history, and technical communications.

A Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability

ASGA is the leading organization for solar grazing in the U.S., championing American farming and innovation. Rooted in the farming community, ASGA helps farmers diversify their income streams while preserving farmland for food production. Solar grazing strengthens regional markets by supporting meat, dairy, and wool industries and enhances environmental stewardship by improving soil health and fostering biodiversity.

By replacing or reducing mowing at solar sites, solar grazing lowers operational costs, decreases emissions, and promotes sustainable land management practices. Additionally, ASGA plays a critical role in community engagement, helping to build trust with farmers and support the development of mutually beneficial solar projects in rural areas.

American Solar Grazing Association | www.solargrazing.org