Grant: Alliance Grants

The federal government of Canada developed the Clean Electricity Regulations as a major step in the fight against climate change. This federal framework requires dramatic reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and emphasizes renewable resources like solar energy. The province of Saskatchewan is responding by constructing a new utility-grade solar power station. It is currently unclear how grassland flora and fauna respond to solar power infrastructure given that it is relatively new on the landscape compared to other, more traditional, energy types. Our research, with Iyuhána Solar Limited Partnership, addresses how plant, insect, bird, and bat populations change in response to construction and operation of a utility-scale solar electricity plant. We are using a Before-After-Control-Impact study design to examine changes in the area of construction, as well as nearby reference locations. The area selected for development is currently in annual crop production, which is of low value to wildlife and non-agricultural plants. Strategic planting of native vegetation during and after construction of the solar facility may attract wildlife and offer the opportunity to enhance biodiversity in addition to the benefits associated with emission-free energy. Our overall objective is to provide scientific insight into the use of a utility-scale solar facility by various plants and animals, and thereby best practice guidelines for: (a) long-term management of the facility; and (b) construction of new solar facilities as this form of energy expands. This kind of research will be crucial for Canada as we expand use of renewable energy resources and need to manage additional sites.