A study in Colorado's semi-arid grasslands found that grasses thrive in the shade of solar arrays, especially in drought years. This research highlights that while solar development aims for efficient energy production, it can also lead to better water retention and plant growth under the panels. Additionally, the study underscores the challenge of more frequent droughts due to climate change, emphasizing the need for ecologically informed solar energy solutions that maintain the habitats and resources of grasslands.
Grasses growing in the shade of a solar array were only a little less productive than those growing nearby in open grassland during years of average and above-average rainfall.
Our primary goal is to ensure an ecologically informed solar energy future.
Solar panels create microclimates that redirect rain to the edge of panels, allowing small rain events to provide biologically relevant amounts of water.
A warmer climate has increased the potential for more frequent and severe drought, highlighting the ecological implications of solar development in grasslands.
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