THE EFFECT OF SOLAR AND AGRIVOLTAIC ARRAYS ON LOCAL TEMPERATURES

Abstract

Renewable energy, specifically solar power, has witnessed significant growth globally, emerging as a dominant energy source. While solar energy is praised for its emissions-reducing potential, it raises environmental concerns related to land use. One important consideration is the local temperature impact of photovoltaic arrays, referred to as the photovoltaic heat island effect (PVHI). This potential effect has halted many proposed solar developments and has significant implications in urban planning. This paper investigates multiple solar sites in the southwest region of the United States measuring the distance to drop-off (the furthest distance in where the panels significantly affect land surface temperature), and the average increase in temperature within the system from a natural non developed state. Secondarily, this paper will investigate the effects of nontraditional array types such as Agrivoltaics—which integrates crop and energy production within the same space. Analysis is conducted using raster data from the United States Geological Survey's (USGS) Natural Earth Portal, utilizing Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 Collection 2 Level 2 Surface Temperature data. Seasonal temperature variations are normalized by creating an urban heat island index. Temperature drop-off is examined by using transects which extend from edge of arrays outwards to create scatter plot graphs for each solar site. The implications for the water, food, energy nexus is examined and informs policymakers and stakeholders facilitating sustainable development and potential PVHI mitigation strategies.