New Energy Insights Blog

Cultivating Sustainability: Managing Vegetation in Solar Farms

By: Caresse Reid

Managing vegetation is a crucial part of developing and operating successful solar energy projects. The goal is to maximize energy production while minimizing environmental impact, all while meeting various ecological and regulatory requirements. Finding the right strategies for vegetation management can lead to more effective and sustainable solar energy production.

One of the main challenges in this process is achieving a proper balance. Solar panels require clear, unobstructed sunlight to function efficiently, but it's also important to maintain a healthy and thriving ecosystem around them. This means creating habitats for pollinators, controlling invasive species, and preventing soil erosion.

To address these needs, solar developers can take several steps. Before construction begins, they might plant cover crops like Rye or Winter Wheat to cover the soil rather than for the purpose of being harvested. Cover crops manage soil erosion, soil fertility, soil quality, water, weeds, pests, diseases, biodiversity and wildlife in an agroecosystem. After installation, introducing native pollinator-friendly grasses that grow to manageable heights can support local wildlife and reduce maintenance needs.

Each solar project comes with its own set of vegetation management challenges. For example, a site that was previously used for crops may need little additional work. In contrast, former hay fields might struggle with persistent weed problems, requiring treatments like pre-planting sprays and multiple mowings. Experts often recommend scheduling three well-timed mowings in the first year after seeding to keep weeds under control and help native plants establish themselves. In the following years, maintenance may involve targeted mowing and the careful use of specific herbicides to address any remaining issues.

Regulations also play a significant role in how vegetation is managed around solar installations. Local authorities may have specific requirements, such as maintaining tree buffers or establishing pollinator meadows. These rules can vary widely depending on the location. For instance, in Minnesota's cold climate, it's important to plant native species that can withstand harsh winters to ensure long-term success and compliance with local standards.

The solar industry is continually exploring innovative solutions to meet these diverse challenges. One effective and environmentally friendly method is agrivoltaics, which integrates solar energy production with agricultural activities. This approach allows for dual land use, where solar installations coexist with crops or livestock, such as sheep grazing. Grazing sheep on solar sites is particularly useful for managing vegetation on gravel surfaces, where they can control grass growth between the rocky areas without risking damage to the solar panels. This natural solution not only maintains the land but also supports agricultural productivity.

Another form of agrivoltaics involves integrating crop production with solar installations. This method allows landowners to continue farming under and around solar panels, improving land use efficiency and potentially enhancing crop yields through partial shading. Additionally, agrivoltaics supports pollinator habitats and improves soil health, offering a sustainable strategy for managing vegetation while contributing to both local agriculture and energy production.

Proper vegetation management around solar panels is essential for both optimal energy production and environmental stewardship. By navigating regional regulations and embracing creative approaches like agrivoltaics, the solar industry can continue to grow sustainably, benefiting both energy producers and the diverse ecosystems that surround these installations.