The U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) has issued a request for information (RFI) to gather input on solar land use and its impacts on wildlife and ecosystems.
According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s Solar Futures Study, reaching President Biden’s goal of a 100% clean energy economy with net-zero emissions could require 1 terawatt of installed solar capacity by 2035, which would require about 5.7 million acres of land. Although the land requirements are less than 0.3% of the contiguous United States, minimizing impacts on wildlife and wildlife habitat—as well as maximizing the benefits—will be critical to meeting these climate goals in partnership with local communities. SETO is interested in learning more from photovoltaic developers; utility planners; local, state, and federal government entities; and conservation and environmental groups.
Response Date: Sep. 30, 2021