The rise of solar power as an on-farm alternative energy source is encouraging. However, the growth of these photovoltaic systems could be contributing to a decline in pollinator habitats and nectar resources, which impact ecosystems and agricultural productivity.
Solar installations, particularly those not mounted on rooftops, can have significant environmental footprints.
Some sites keep the ground bare, which can lead to issues like wind and water erosion, while others manage the land around the panels with routine mowing of native vegetation.
The majority of solar panel areas, however, are planted with low-maintenance perennial grasses, which provide minimal benefits for pollinators.
Integrating pollinator-friendly plants into solar fields could offer significant ecological advantages. The shade provided by solar panels can extend the blooming period of various flowering plants, enhancing the availability of nectar for pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Additionally, a plant canopy beneath the panels creates a cooler environment compared to bare soil, which can improve the efficiency of the photovoltaic cells.
By integrating pollinator habitats into solar projects, small farms can both support ecosystem health and enhance the efficiency of solar energy production.