Solar energy is becoming more environmentally friendly.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory under the U.S. Department of Energy announced an evaluation of the environmental impact of large-scale solar energy plants on the twentieth (local time). The institute analyzed the interrelationships between habitat, moisture, soil, and solar energy production at three large-scale solar energy plants in Minnesota from an ecovoltaics perspective.
Eco-solar energy is a comparatively recent concept that focuses on preserving the ecosystem and biodiversity by minimizing ecological impacts through the design, installation, and operation of solar energy plants for the aim of harmonizing solar energy generation and the ecosystem.
Research has shown that native grasslands may be restored under solar panels, providing soil advantages and habitat for wildlife and pollinators. It also had the effect of mitigating a few of the damage to soil and habitat.
Nevertheless, aside from some regions, there seemed to be differences in solar panel performance and power production.
James McCall, a researcher within the Agricultural Solar Division on the National Renewable Energy Research Institute, said, “This study shows that soil conditions, native moisture source habitats, insect populations and levels of solar energy production vary from region to region,” adding, “We plan to conduct additional research at more sites in the long run.” “We’ll construct a foundation for standardization,” he said.
Meanwhile, voices opposing agricultural solar energy installed on farmland or pastureland are continuously being raised on the grounds that it could affect the encircling environment.
The UK recently announced the installation of 900 MW of solar energy in Norfolk, sparking opposition from residents by promoting five projects within the nearby area alone. As well as, the announcement that agricultural land near Wiltshire can be used as a solar energy plant was met with opposition from residents.
Meanwhile, america announced last September that it could invest $20 million (about 27 billion won) in agricultural solar energy combined with ranches.
Reporter Jaeseung Lee energy@aitimes.com
