Balancing Clean Energy and Wildlife: The Impact of Floating Solar on Waterbirds

As the world seeks sustainable energy solutions to combat climate change, floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, commonly known as "floatovoltaics," have emerged as a promising technology. These solar panels, installed over artificial water bodies such as irrigation ponds, reservoirs, and wastewater treatment plants, optimize space for clean energy production while preserving natural lands. From small-scale installations at California wineries to large-scale projects in China, floatovoltaics are gaining global traction. However, their placement in aquatic environments raises critical questions about their impact on local wildlife, particularly waterbirds, many of which face threats like habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and avian influenza. A recent study from the University of California, Davis, published in Nature Water (Nature Water), addresses these concerns by examining the interactions between floating solar projects and waterbirds, offering a roadmap for aligning renewable energy with biodiversity conservation.

Positive Interactions and Benefits

The study reports several encouraging observations of waterbird interactions with floating solar installations. For instance, black-crowned night herons have been seen resting on panels, double-breasted cormorants competing for space, and black phoebes nesting beneath panels. These findings suggest that, under certain conditions, FPV systems can serve as new habitats or resting areas, particularly in environments with limited natural perches. Such interactions could enhance local biodiversity if managed thoughtfully.

Beyond wildlife benefits, floating solar projects offer significant environmental advantages. By covering water surfaces, they reduce evaporation, which is particularly valuable for agricultural irrigation ponds, helping conserve water resources in water-scarce regions. Additionally, floatovoltaics avoid the need to convert cropland or natural areas into solar farms, preserving terrestrial ecosystems and supporting food security. These benefits align with global sustainability goals, making floatovoltaics an attractive option for renewable energy development.

Challenges and Research Needs

Despite the promising observations, the study underscores that the ecological impacts of floating solar projects are not fully understood. Potential risks include physical harm to birds from collisions with panels, changes in water quality due to panel materials, and the introduction of pollutants like microplastics or chemicals. The study calls for more comprehensive research to quantify these risks and identify effective mitigation strategies. For example, developing materials that minimize pollutant leaching or designing panel layouts that reduce collision risks could enhance the compatibility of FPVs with aquatic ecosystems.

The research also highlights the importance of site-specific conservation strategies. Waterbird species, behaviors, and habitat needs vary widely across regions and seasons, necessitating tailored approaches. For instance, a reservoir in a migratory bird corridor may require different management than a wastewater treatment pond used by resident species. Monitoring methods, such as remote sensing or on-site surveys, will be critical for assessing these impacts over time and adapting management practices accordingly.

Global Context and Future Directions

Floating solar technology is expanding rapidly, with significant projects in the United States, China, and beyond. A January 2025 study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) estimates that U.S. reservoirs alone could host floating solar projects with capacities up to 77,000 megawatts, highlighting the technology’s potential to meet national energy goals (NREL). However, as the industry grows, so does the need to integrate ecological considerations into project planning.

The UC Davis study provides a valuable framework for this integration, emphasizing collaboration between energy developers, conservationists, and policymakers. Funding from sources like the UC Office of the President’s California Climate Action Seed Grant, Enel Green Power, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Geological Survey supported the research, underscoring the broad interest in sustainable energy solutions. Coauthors from institutions like the University of Central Florida and Lancaster University further highlight the global relevance of this work.

Conclusion

As the world transitions to renewable energy to combat climate change, technologies like floating solar offer innovative solutions to meet energy demands sustainably. However, their deployment must be guided by a commitment to preserving biodiversity, particularly for vulnerable species like waterbirds. The UC Davis study, published in May 2025, offers a critical step forward by identifying key considerations for aligning floating solar development with wildlife conservation. By prioritizing research, implementing site-specific strategies, and fostering collaboration, the floating solar industry can contribute to a future where clean energy and healthy ecosystems coexist harmoniously.