Drainage Under a Solar Farm
Solar farms can benefit drainage in several ways:
Reduced runoff: Solar panels cover the ground and prevent rainwater from directly hitting the soil. As a result, the rate of runoff is reduced, and water has more time to be absorbed into the ground, reducing the risk of flooding and erosion.
Improved soil quality: Solar panels protect the soil from the sun's heat and reduce water evaporation, which helps to maintain soil moisture and improve its quality. This can lead to better plant growth and healthier ecosystems.
Reduced sedimentation: By reducing the amount of soil that is disturbed during construction, solar farms can also reduce sedimentation and erosion in nearby waterways. This can improve water quality and reduce the risk of flooding.
Groundwater recharge: As rainwater is absorbed into the soil, it can also help to replenish groundwater resources, which can be important for local ecosystems and human water supplies.
Solar farms in fact reduce drainage. Solar farms significantly reduce wind and surface water erosion by employing land-preserving plant mixtures under and around the solar arrays, creating pollinator habitats.
To learn more about drainage under a solar farm, visit: Examining the Potential for Agricultural Benefits from Pollinator Habitat at Solar Facilities in the United States | Environmental Science & Technology (acs.org)