Impact of Ground-Mounted Solar PV on Dutch Landscapes: A Study

Researchers from Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands conducted a comprehensive study assessing the ecological impact of ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems in the Dutch province of Gelderland. This analysis, published in the journal Renewable Energy on June 17, 2025, focuses on 46 solar power plants (SPPs), examining how previous land use affects biodiversity, land use competition, and landscape experience.

The study identifies 43 different spatial measures implemented across these solar installations, categorizing them into three main areas: competition with land use, biodiversity protection, and enhancing landscape experience. Dr. Lior Kahana, the lead researcher, emphasized the importance of understanding the interplay between societal concerns and the arrangements made in solar power installations. According to Dr. Kahana, "Our comparative case study aims to document the range of spatial measures and identify synergies and trade-offs between them."

Gelderland, with a land area of 5,136 square kilometers, was chosen due to its comparable cultural and legal context. The researchers compiled their data from various sources, including online maps, land use records, and expert consultations. Their fieldwork included site visits and analysis of pre-construction satellite images to geo-reference the spatial measures of these solar plants.

The findings reveal that over half (59%) of the solar power plants previously occupied agricultural land, while 15% were established on former landfill sites. Additionally, the average land area occupation ratio (LAOR) for these installations increased from 30% in 2015 to nearly 60% in 2021. This rise indicates a trend toward more intensive use of land for solar energy production, raising concerns about its impact on existing ecosystems.

The researchers noted that in about 66% of the SPPs where vegetation existed prior to construction, some degree of vegetation was removed, averaging a loss of 11.3% of the project surface. While measures were taken to reintroduce vegetation in 54% of the SPPs, the area planted was significantly less than what was removed.

The implementation of measures addressing biodiversity loss was identified in 12 cases, further raising questions about the effectiveness of these initiatives. For instance, while some solar plants included features to support local wildlife, the overall ecological footprint remains concerning. "Policy guidelines often frame the combination of PV systems with landfills or agricultural land as beneficial, yet our findings suggest significant trade-offs that must be considered, especially regarding vegetation loss," Dr. Kahana concluded.

The team also highlighted that 70% of the solar power plants were entirely enclosed by security fencing, which limits public interaction with the landscape. Only 26% of the sites managed to reduce the height of their solar arrays below 1.65 meters, allowing a better view for landscape users.

This analysis not only contributes to the understanding of solar energy's ecological implications but also serves as a call to action for policymakers and developers to balance energy production with environmental stewardship. As the demand for renewable energy grows, the attention to how these projects affect existing landscapes and ecosystems becomes increasingly critical, marking a pivotal moment in the energy transition narrative.

In conclusion, while ground-mounted solar PV systems play a crucial role in the shift towards renewable energy, their deployment must be strategically managed to mitigate ecological impacts. Future projects should prioritize biodiversity and landscape experience to ensure a sustainable coexistence of energy production and environmental health.