Simplicity Pays Solar Panels Cut Farrowing Costs
John and Gloria Musick of Wellsville report a passive solar heated farrowing house, built in 1979, that cut costs and paid for itself in the first winter. The 55 by 12.5 foot metal structure uses fiberglass skylights, attic ventilators, and natural heat with minimal maintenance. They heat to 70–75 degrees for sows and 90 for piglets, with manual feeding and simple carts for care. The solar setup cost about 300 dollars more than a conventional roof, and overall hog prices in recent years make the system economically essential for their farrow-to-finish operation.