SolarHomestead is designed to operate as a year-round, multi-phased project, with each phase unfolding strategically to maximize the land’s potential and ensure long-term sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of the project’s timeline and key activities:
The first year marks the foundation of SolarHomestead, where essential infrastructure and farming operations are established. This phase typically begins in early spring when weather conditions are most favorable for land preparation and solar installation.
Conduct soil testing and land surveys to identify the optimal spots for crop cultivation and solar panel placement.
Clear and prepare the land for farming, ensuring it is ready for planting sweet potatoes as the first crop in the rotation.
Install a 10 kW solar array and battery storage system to power the homestead’s operations, including irrigation and glamping facilities.
Begin constructing the wooden pallet decks and setting up inflatable tiny houses for the glamping site.
Plant sweet potatoes and implement water management systems, such as rainwater collection and solar-powered irrigation.
Start marketing the glamping retreat to build interest and attract visitors for the fall and winter seasons.
Conduct initial farm tours and small-scale workshops to introduce the project to the local community and potential eco-tourism guests.
Harvest the sweet potatoes, processing and selling them to local markets, through CSA programs, or directly at the farm.
Host the first round of glamping retreats, offering visitors an immersive experience in off-grid, sustainable living.
Harvest the sweet potatoes, processing and selling them to local markets, through CSA programs, or directly at the farm.
Host the first round of glamping retreats, offering visitors an immersive experience in off-grid, sustainable living.
With the foundational elements in place, the second year focuses on expanding operations, crop rotation, and increasing revenue streams.
Rotate crops, transitioning from sweet potatoes to watermelons, and use cover crops to maintain soil health.
Continue marketing the glamping site and schedule workshops and educational events for the community.
Evaluate the potential for introducing value-added products (e.g., sweet potato flour) to diversify income.
Harvest watermelons and offer farm-to-table experiences for glamping guests.
Run full-scale glamping retreats, workshops, and farm tours, establishing SolarHomestead as a destination for eco-conscious travelers and learners.
By the third year, SolarHomestead is fully operational, generating income through agricultural sales, eco-tourism, and educational events. This phase also marks the beginning of expansion through the lease-to-own franchise model.
Start offering franchise opportunities to other landowners, sharing the SolarHomestead model and training them to manage their homesteads.
Introduce additional crops or value-added products based on market demand and farm performance.
Strengthen community engagement through more frequent workshops and educational programs.
Continue to scale through franchise partnerships, enabling landowners to adopt the SolarHomestead model.
Adapt the farm's operations to include new technologies, crops, or eco-tourism services based on trends and research in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy.