Managing the land used to host solar energy projects with conservation practices can be a tool for good land stewardship, offering economic and ecological benefits.
Released today, a fact sheet from the Center for Rural Affairs, “Unlocking the Dual Benefits of Solar Energy and Conservation Practices,” analyzes the dual benefits of solar energy and conservation practices.
Conservation practices are methods used to manage, protect, and restore natural resources, often by minimizing erosion and enhancing biodiversity for long-term ecological health. These practices can be implemented on land being used to host solar projects.
“Solar energy development is often viewed as a threat to various land use practices, but it can actually work alongside them,” said Cora Hoffer, senior policy associate at the Center for Rural Affairs. “Implementing conservation practices on the land under solar panels can improve soil health, and support wildlife and pollinator habitat. It can also offer financial support to farmers and landowners through land-lease revenue or cost savings from on-farm electricity generation.”
Exploring the opportunity to site solar projects on land enrolled in federal conservation programs, like the Conservation Stewardship Program and Environmental Quality Incentives Program, could allow landowners to demonstrate good land stewardship while continuing to generate income.
Several land management practices that can be implemented at solar sites are supported by federal conservation programs, such as grazing livestock to manage vegetation and planting pollinator-friendly species to provide habitat and stabilize soil. Additionally, shade created by solar panels cools the soil and reduces water loss, potentially improving yields and plant quality.
“Rather than viewing solar energy and ecological stewardship as having competing interests, combining them offers a forward-thinking approach to sustainable land-use,” said Hoffer. “It presents an opportunity to address growing energy demand and conservation efforts, while providing financial benefits to farmers and landowners.”
The fact sheet is available in both English and Spanish. To read and download a copy of the fact sheet, visit cfra.org/publications.
