The dilemma of "food or climate" is greatest when it comes to solar cells in fields. Agricultural land is important for food security and is protected by law. At the same time, more electricity production is needed – not least in southern Sweden.

In Skåne, there are applications that would increase electricity production by over 50 percent. Here it is often no, 24 times last year. Skåne believes that agricultural land would be permanently changed.

"The bottom line is that agricultural land should be protected," says Olof Liungman, head of unit at the county administrative board.

"Quickest way to get more electricity"

The neighbouring county of Halland often grants permits. Here it is pointed out that the land is not destroyed, but can be used when the solar cells are removed.

"We usually say yes, it's the fastest way to get more electricity," points out Per Leander, Director of Environmental Protection in Halland.

Last year, 65 solar parks were rejected by the county administrative boards. They could have provided enough household electricity for 260,000 households.

Right now, close to 200 solar parks are waiting for permits. They would require the equivalent of one thousandth of all agricultural land in Sweden and could provide 4-5 TWh annually, as much as the two new SMR nuclear reactors Vattenfall is considering building in Ringhals. Solar power takes 1–2 years to build. SMR reactors at least ten years.

Appealed to the highest court

At Svedberga farm in Skåne, the new owner wants to install solar cells on 230 hectares of arable land.

The County Administrative Board said no, but in the Environmental Court the farm received a permit. Now the County Administrative Board has appealed to the highest court. The owner European Energy believes that the land is sufficient for both agriculture and electricity production.

"We are not destroying arable land. We cultivate grassland between rows of solar panels, after 30 years when the park is taken out of use, it is prime field again, says Project Manager Peter Braun.

Olof Ljungman at Skåne County Administrative Board calls for clearer directives from the legislator:

"We think the government should put its foot down. When will we preserve agricultural land and when is it okay to build electricity generation?