Context
A study analysing 2,344 counties in China during 2014–2023 found that large-scale solar installations can increase vegetation cover but may produce ‘inferior greening’, where dense vegetation has lower ecological diversity. The effect was more pronounced in non-desert regions.
Explanation
- Microclimate refers to local atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, moisture, wind and solar radiation, within a small area.
- Large solar photovoltaic (PV) farms can alter microclimates by creating shade, changing soil temperature, moisture availability and rainfall redistribution.
- These changes may promote vegetation beneath and around solar panels, producing apparent greening.
- However, increased vegetation cover does not necessarily mean improved biodiversity or ecosystem health.
- ‘Inferior greening’ describes vegetation growth that is dense but relatively homogeneous, lacking the structural and species diversity of natural habitats.
- Such habitat simplification can adversely affect bird diversity and other ecosystem functions.
- The effects were stronger in non-desert ecosystems, where solar farms may replace comparatively diverse natural habitats.
- The study therefore suggests concentrating large solar projects in suitable desert regions to minimise ecological trade-offs.
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