Are solar panels a wetland impact?

In the past, the posts/pilings that are used to install solar arrays have not been considered a wetland impact that would require compensatory mitigation under the WCA. The reality is that solar arrays bring wetlands into non-aquatic use and may, or may, not negatively impact the wetland’s quality or function.

Should solar panels be installed on posts/pilings in wetlands?

To help local governments evaluate the potential impacts to a wetland’s function and value, the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) issued guidance that provides a suggested approach for evaluating projects when they involve the installation of solar panels on posts/pilings in wetlands.

Should solar arrays be located near wetlands?

Historically, solar arrays have been sited within or near farmed wetlands (wetlands that are plowed). If solar developers restore the disturbed wetlands following construction, such as with native plant species, the function and value may actually improve, despite the shading from the solar arrays.

Do solar arrays affect wetlands?

The reality is that solar arrays bring wetlands into non-aquatic use and may, or may, not negatively impact the wetland’s quality or function. Historically, solar arrays have been sited within or near farmed wetlands (wetlands that are plowed).

Do solar panels delay bloom in a dryland agrivoltaic ecosystem?

Partial shading by solar panels delays bloom, increases floral abundance during late-sea-son for pollinators in a dryland, agrivoltaic ecosystem. Scientific Reports 11:7452. DOI: 10.1038/ s41598-021-86756-4 Graitson, E., S. Ursenbacher, and O. Lourdais. 2020.

Do ground-mounted solar parks promote land surface cool islands?

Ground-mounted photovoltaic solar parks promote land surface cool islands in arid ecosystems. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Transition 1:10008. DOI:10.1016/j.rset.2021.100008 Hall, P.K., W. Morgan, and J. Richardson. 2022. Land use conflicts between wind and solar renewable energy and agricultural uses.