Incorporating Ecosystem\nServices into Solar Energy\nSiting to Enhance Sustainable Energy Transitions

Solar energy is expected to play a large role in decarbonization\nof the energy sector globally. In the United States, solar energy\nis forecasted to generate roughly 45% of the electricity by 2050.\nAlthough solar energy mitigates the negative effects of climate change\nby providing electricity without releasing greenhouse gases, little\nis known about the implications of solar energy development for ecosystem\nservices. In this study, we developed a spatially explicit, techno-ecological\nsolar suitability model consisting of six scenarios designed to evaluate\nthe trade-offs between ground-mounted solar energy generation and\nmultiple ecosystem services. By incorporating solar suitability modeling\nwith ecosystem service evaluation, we develop a method that provides\na comprehensive understanding of potential techno-ecological trade-offs.\nTo test our methodology, we used Connecticut (USA) as a study site\nfor analyzing the potential trade-offs of future solar energy facilities,\nbut the methods can be widely applied. Our results suggest that well-sited\nsolar energy development can decrease sediment and nutrient export\nwhile offsetting carbon emissions from power plants. This study provides\na holistic assessment of incorporating ecosystem services in future\nsolar energy development decision-making and presents an approach\nfor minimizing trade-offs and maximizing sustainable outcomes.