As global solar power capacity continues to rise, energy companies are increasingly exploring unconventional locations for solar projects, particularly deserts and waterways. These innovative approaches aim to expand renewable energy without sacrificing arable land, addressing environmental concerns while promoting sustainability.
Desert Initiatives: Kubuqi’s Solar Wall
In China, the government has initiated an ambitious project in the Kubuqi Desert in Inner Mongolia. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to create a “solar great wall,” is designed to generate enough energy to power Beijing. The project plans to construct a 400-km-long and 5-km-wide solar installation with a targeted capacity of 100 GW. As of now, approximately 5.4 GW of solar capacity has already been installed in this largely lifeless desert, which spans 18,600 square kilometers.
The solar panels are strategically placed in a narrow band of dunes near the Yellow River. Developers anticipate that these installations will not only generate clean energy but also provide shade, potentially enabling the growth of grass and crops, which could revitalize the region. Furthermore, the project aims to combat desertification by reducing wind erosion and stabilizing sand dunes.
Innovative Approaches in the United States and Beyond
The Ivanpah Solar Plant in California’s Mojave Desert, launched in 2014, was seen as a pioneering step for solar power in arid regions. Utilizing concentrated solar technology, it was initially celebrated as a breakthrough. However, environmental groups have raised concerns regarding its impact on local wildlife. Plans to shut down the plant in 2026 may pave the way for newer technologies that minimize ecological disruption.
Another emerging trend is agrivoltaics, which involves integrating solar energy production with agricultural practices. This method is gaining traction in land-constrained countries like the Netherlands. According to Martijn van der Pouw, a business developer with Statkraft Netherlands, “Agri-PV can resolve the land conflict between renewable energy production and agricultural production.” He emphasizes that agriculture should remain the primary use of land in these projects.
In California’s Central Valley, the Project Nexus demonstrates another innovative approach. This pilot project, funded with $20 million, was completed in August and utilizes solar panels installed above canals. By transforming sections of the Turlock Irrigation District’s canals into renewable energy sources, it generates 1.6 MW of power. This project follows a similar initiative in Phoenix, Arizona, which commenced in 2024.
Research indicates that solar panels positioned over water can enhance efficiency by keeping them cool while simultaneously reducing water loss through evaporation. This dual-use strategy not only addresses energy production but also offers solutions to mitigate drought and control algae growth.
Globally, various companies are pursuing floating solar projects, particularly on smaller bodies of water. Japan has emerged as a leader in this field, developing small-scale solar installations on inland lakes and reservoirs. Notably, the largest floating solar plant is located behind the Yamakura Dam in Chiba Prefecture, covering 18 hectares and providing power to nearly 5,000 households.
The ongoing development of solar projects in unconventional locations highlights the potential for sustainable energy solutions that minimize environmental impact. By reducing reliance on arable land, these initiatives not only help meet energy demands but also foster community and political support for renewable energy projects. As the industry evolves, innovative approaches may set a precedent for future developments, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable energy landscape.
