China is in the process of implementing an idea that everyone has already thought of: using deserts to produce solar energy. As you will see, this move has had a real impact on the local ecosystem.
China has come up with a win-win solution from an ecological point of view: by exploiting arid zones, the Middle Kingdom has not only succeeded in producing “clean” energy, which makes sense, but it has also managed to improve the local ecosystem. A study published in Scientific Reports by researchers at Xi’an University of Technology confirms that solar farms in the desert have a positive impact on the microclimate, soil properties and vegetation. To reach this conclusion, the scientists used the Driving Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) model recommended by the European Environment Agency. By analysing 57 indicators, they applied a calculation model based on entropy to assess their results. The results are clear: the Qinghai Gonghe photovoltaic park, located in the Tarlatán desert, is good for the local flora.
The report states that the ecological impact of the solar park is classified as “general” with a score of 0.4393, while the surrounding areas received lower scores, described as “poor”.
How is this possible? Why this “double Kiss Cool effect”? One of the most striking aspects of the study is the way in which the shadow cast by solar panels modifies the environment. The researchers observed that these installations :
- improve the microclimate by reducing atmospheric pressure and increasing humidity,
- encourage the growth of vegetation and the development of micro-organisms in the soil.
In other words, thanks to the large shaded areas they produce, solar farms do more than just produce energy: they also contribute to the ecological rehabilitation of arid areas. Each study of this kind is further proof of the urgent need to think more carefully about where to locate solar infrastructure and other renewable energies. Renewable energy covers large areas and therefore has a major impact on the surrounding landscapes and ecosystems. Let’s make sure that this impact is as positive as possible. But let’s not get too carried away either. Researchers stress that this transformation needs to be monitored over the long term to maximise its positive effects and reduce any negative impacts. Because yes, there are negative impacts too, as you might expect. The “green revolution” is not really underway, and most countries, China being no exception, are polluting more and more every year.
