In Part 3 of our blog series on sustainable solar development, we discussed Inovateus’ strategy
for how to achieve zero-waste construction. In part 4, we’ll go over vegetation management.
Traditional solar developers rarely consider the landscaping or seed mix that gets planted under
a solar array. With typical vegetation management practices, the solar developer will clear the
land of any vegetation before construction. After construction, the developer will place gravel
under the array or plant the least expensive grass seed, then manage the turf and any weeds
with herbicides, gas-powered lawn mowers, weed whackers, etc.
These traditional vegetation management practices don’t consider the land—often being
former agricultural land—or the surrounding wildlife or natural vegetation and habitat.
Planting Friendly Pollinators and Limiting Soil or Tree Removal
With our mission to Build a Brilliant Tomorrow and to be stewards of the planet, Inovateus developed sustainable vegetation management best practices that would preserve, protect, and nurture the land where we construct solar projects. These practices not only help to protect the land, but can also reduce construction and future O&M costs.
During construction, Inovateus team members use best land conservation practices for limiting soil removal and cutting down trees. In at least one case, Inovateus has removed and transplanted trees at our offices.
Inovateus also assesses the existing vegetation and wildlife habitats and then selects native bee & butterfly pollinator-friendly seed mixes that will help maintain the land and support the existing wildlife and any nearby farms. This practice significantly reduces mowing and vegetation control while also reducing the usage of herbicides and pesticides.
Studies have also shown that planting pollinator-friendly ground cover can reduce average on-site temperatures, increasing module efficiency and system production.
The environmental enhancement benefits to surrounding agricultural communities are highly valuable, especially through the support of at-risk bee populations.
Agricultural/Economic Support
By planting bee-pollinator-friendly vegetation at our solar plants, local beekeepers are often invited to keep hives inside and near these solar pollinator fields to make honey and other bee products. This practice can also attract more pollinating insects to the region and support the crops at nearby agricultural fields.
Environmental Impact
Pollinators help with stormwater run-off and promote soil health while significantly reducing the fertilizer, herbicide, and pesticides used by conventional solar developers. With our solar arrays providing habitats for bees, butterflies, insects, and other wildlife, pollinators provide a positive environmental impact by supporting nature, sequestering more carbon, and improving water and soil quality.
Aesthetics and Community Engagement
Planting pollinators can also make the solar farm look more beautiful and colorful, enhancing the clean energy curb appeal for the community. When requested, Inovateus has also planted native trees, shrubs, and vegetation around the solar array, enhancing the traditional fencing with a natural barrier.
When a solar project looks more attractive, it has the added benefit of attracting the attention of the community and the local media. Inovateus solar’s clients have garnered a great deal of media attention for the projects that have featured bee & butterfly habitats. With the permission of clients, these sustainable solar projects can also host tours for students and researchers interested in the science and environmental impact of solar projects with bee & butterfly habitats.
Contact Inovateus for more information on how we sustainably develop solar projects with your ESG goals in mind.
