EKOenergy focuses on the interactions between renewable energy and biodiversity
During the Electrifying in Harmony with Nature project, which we launched in September 2024, we explore research, gather best practices, and analyse findings on nature conservation and restoration in wind and solar farms. We actively bring this topic into discussions with energy companies and consumers, showcase inspiring examples in our communications, and contribute to publications like this report. Additionally, we support trainees in writing theses on the subject.
As part of the project, we just published the report Solar and nature can go hand in hand. (PDF, 2.3 MB). The publication aims to inform readers about the possible impacts of solar energy facilities on biodiversity, propose ways to mitigate these impacts, and encourage actions to promote biodiversity within solar power plants. By doing so, it seeks to contribute to a smoother energy transition.
The solar revolution: risks and chances for nature
The solar age has started. All over the world, the number of utility-scale solar farms added to the grid grows fast. While this evolution is essential to win the fight against climate change, the main driver for the astonishing speed of the solar expansion is costs: solar is now the cheapest way to produce electricity.
It’s evident that rapid and sudden expansion of large solar installations, particularly large, ground-mounted installations, can have significant ecological impacts. These include, for example, habitat loss, fragmentation, microclimate alterations, and direct wildlife mortality.
At the same time, solar farms can also become suitable habitats for many species, if well planned and properly implemented. Measures such as preserving wildlife corridors, sowing native vegetation, implementing species protection plans, and designing biodiversity-friendly infrastructures can foster local biodiversity.
In our report Solar and nature can go hand in hand we give several inspiring examples of nature protection and restoration on solar farms, and we will continue collecting many more such examples in the coming months and years.
Looking ahead, continued research and incorporating insights from diverse geographic contexts will refine these strategies and improve the ecological design of future solar installations. This will ensure that the energy transition not only mitigates climate change but also actively promotes biodiversity – a win for both people and the planet!
Published: 19 February 2025
