Solar Energy Development A discussion of solar energy, environmental impacts associated with solar energy development, and mitigation measures to avoid or reduce solar energy development impacts.

Follow the links below to learn about solar energy, and environmental impacts of solar energy development, including impacts from site evaluation, construction, operation, and decommissioning of solar energy facilities. You'll also find information about mitigation measures than can be used to reduce environmental impacts.

• Resources and Technology
  Solar energy resources, geographic distribution development scales, and solar energy facilities
• Solar Energy Development Activities and Resource Requirements
  Components of solar energy developments that could result in environmental impacts
• Potential Impacts
  Issues of environmental concern for solar energy developments, including direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts
• Laws and Regulations
  Federal legal requirements applicable to solar energy development activities
• Mitigation Measures
  Mitigation measures to minimize or avoid environmental impacts
• Government Programs and Tribal Incentives
  Links to government programs and tribal incentives for solar energy development
• Environmental Reports and Case Studies
  Access to environmental reports and case studies related to solar energy development
• General Information
  Links to solar energy development Web sites

Solar Energy Development and Electric Transmission

Solar energy projects require electric transmission systems to transport the electricity they generate to consumers. Environmental impacts from construction and operation of electric transmission systems are discussed separately in the Energy Transmission section, and must be considered in addition to the impacts presented here.