Vattenfall helps biodiversity flourish within solar projects

• Vattenfall is investing EUR50m in 2020-2021 in solar power and also energy storage projects that likewise promote regional eco-friendly systems as well as biodiversity.

" Our aim is constantly to pursue styles that include nature," said Vattenfall environment supervisor Puck Sanders that operates in the programmer's solar as well as batteries organisation.

The solar development group utilizes three elements when developing projects to support biodiversity.

The very first is location choice. Sanders stated: "Vattenfall adheres to the guidelines of the 'Onshore solar standard procedure' issued by market association Holland Solar.

" This means that we do not establish projects within the EU's Natura 2000 locations, as well as we always operate in dialogue with the immediate atmosphere in addition to various other stakeholders to check out how we can integrate the project into the landscape as efficiently as possible."

After the site has been picked, engineers begin taking a look at exactly how they will certainly design the solar ranch.

The best threat to biodiversity comes from a setup spreading excessive shadow.

Basically all greenery and plants need a certain amount of sunlight. Some plants can expand even if they obtain less than 3 hours of sunlight or if the light is diffused, via trees or vegetation.

Sanders said: "Unfortunately, there is little scattered light offered under the photovoltaic panels.

" Thus, if the solar panels are mounted facing southern, this enhances the light return and also provides those plants under the panels more room to expand-- which aids biodiversity."

" Another benefit of setting things up this way is that it permits sufficient sunshine to pass through the area beneath the panels," claims Annemarie Schouten, company lead massive solar at Vattenfall.

" Installing the panels the proper way, to name a few things making sure optimal drain, needs a balance in between the disposition angle of the panels themselves, the range in between the private rows, and the elevation of the panels.

" It is not recommended to have a whole field full of solar panels, as this inhibits plant development and also as a result reduces biodiversity," she added.

The third standards is establishing an eco-friendly strategy adapted for each location.

Vattenfall works with various, commonly local, partners: environmental consulting companies, nature and atmosphere organisations and also expertise organizations, as an example.

They suggest on the very best design and suggest nature and also landscape monitoring steps.

Schouten said: "Each website is distinct, which is why we work with neighborhood partners to create a plan that contributes to a balanced ecological community.

" For instance, we make decisions based on their suggestions on how to ensure a healthy mix of regional indigenous plants as well as blossoms that have a positive impact on bug, reptile, bird as well as little animal populations.

" We do not use any kind of fertilizers or chemicals, we permit grazing animals to use the site in fall as well as winter season, and we install bee hotels as well as birdhouses where feasible."

Agreements are reached with landowners that after 25 years (the approximate helpful life of photovoltaic panels) the land will certainly be used for agricultural purposes once again.

"In 25 years' time, the land that was originally qualified by monoculture ends up being a spot with a massive quantity of biodiversity," Schouten claimed.