Are solar panels allowed in wetlands

Are solar panels a wetland impact?

In the past, the posts/pilings that are used to install solar arrays have not been considered a wetland impact that would require compensatory mitigation under the WCA. The reality is that solar arrays bring wetlands into non-aquatic use and may, or may, not negatively impact the wetland’s quality or function.

Can wetlands be used for photovoltaic power plants?

The techno-economic feasibility of incorporating up to 20 % wetlands for the installation of photovoltaic power plants is presented in this study. Two sites with major wetland coverage were analyzed. The following are the conclusions drawn from the study:

Should solar panels be installed on posts/pilings in wetlands?

To help local governments evaluate the potential impacts to a wetland’s function and value, the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) issued guidance that provides a suggested approach for evaluating projects when they involve the installation of solar panels on posts/pilings in wetlands.

Do wetland solar systems generate more energy?

Therefore, a higher annual power generation was observed from design simulations. The designs that utilize the wetland up to 20 %, have low installation costs of $ 2.3 million, high energy generation of more than 2 GWh/yr, and have LCOE of $87/MWh which is lesser than LAZARD’s LCOE for solar PV Community systems based on dryland.