Is Desert-Based Solar a Good Idea?
This article explores the benefits of desert-based solar and some potential challenges and solutions associated with rolling out large-scale solar farms in the desert.
While solar power is touted as a renewable resource, extensive installations in desert environments can significantly disrupt local ecosystems. One primary concern involves heat absorption; dark solar panels tend to absorb more heat than the surrounding sand.
Deserts would seem to have the ideal conditions for a solar plant. But what are the advantages and challenges for large-scale PV projects in desert climates? Deserts would appear to be the perfect place to install a solar photovoltaic (PV) plant — they have high levels of solar irradiance and no limitations on space to install panels.
Desert solar installations offer substantial environmental benefits, primarily through their contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast to fossil fuel power plants that continuously release carbon dioxide and other pollutants during operation, solar panels generate electricity without direct emissions once installed.
In fact, with a vast expanse of available land and abundant sunlight, hot deserts are arguably one of the best places on earth for solar energy production. Some suggest the sun's power in desert regions could store enough energy to provide power 24/7, despite the weather or time of day. Desert solar farm. Image used courtesy of Unsplash
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