Bibliographic synthesis of biodiversity-relevant criteria for solar energy siting

The widespread expansion of solar energy generation promises to help mitigate global-scale threats from climate change while potentially impacting biodiversity at local scales. Developers must attempt to maximize solar energy production while minimizing conflicts with biodiversity conservation, particularly as calls for the conservation of 30 % of the world's land and sea area gain traction. Here, we bibliographically synthesized peer-reviewed solar suitability analyses that attempt to optimize locations most suitable for solar development and convened a panel of energy experts to contextualize the use of biodiversity-relevant criteria in siting solar installations. We found that biodiversity-relevant criteria seemed to be used in solar suitability analyses primarily to meet legal requirements, and, thus, may not adequately account for the potential effects of solar infrastructure on local and/or regional biodiversity. The expert panel identified two primary barriers to incorporating biodiversity-relevant criteria into solar suitability analyses: a lack of quality data at relevant scales, and weak regulatory requirements that govern how biodiversity concerns are incorporated into solar siting. Solar energy development and biodiversity conservation address the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, and the inclusion of biodiversity-relevant criteria into solar suitability analyses can ensure their goals remain aligned.

Duke Scholars

Author Elizabeth Leigh Kalies Environmental Natural Science