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 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.