Uncertain effects of alpine solar plants (Switzerland)
We are uncertain about the following effects of alpine solar plants:
- Biodiversity (fauna & flora)
There have been few studies to date on the effects of alpine solar installations on fauna and flora. If an area that was previously shaded by the sun and partially or completely overgrown is shaded, this has an impact on the composition of the plants. Shade-loving plants will establish themselves and displace the sun-loving plants. This is also likely to have an impact on the animal world (e.g. insects). Various wild bees, for example, are tied to certain plants.
- Cloud formation
The thousands of panels of an alpine solar installation will heat up despite the cooler temperatures in the mountains. Presumably much more than the uncovered, partially or completely covered ground. This warming leads to rising air, which can promote the formation of clouds depending on the stratification and humidity of the atmosphere.
According to a climate researcher, the influence on cloud formation is negligible.
- Energy flow
If an area receives less sunlight due to the flow of shade from the solar panels, the ground can store less energy and release it again later. This means that the energy flows are likely to change in the area of large alpine solar plants. It is difficult to estimate whether these changes in energy flows will have an impact on fauna and flora.
- Melting snow
In the areas that are shaded by the solar tables, the snow will melt more slowly in spring than before. This can have positive and/or negative effects on flora and fauna.
Published / updated: 10.5.2024 / 2.7.2024