My part-time PhD at the University of Exeter in collaboration with RSK Biocensus and funded by EDF Renewables, aims to address knowledge gaps in the effects of UK solar farm developments on biodiversity. The research project includes experimental plots within and around a solar farm currently under development.
Here we will monitor biodiversity and other key environmental variables in relation to different planting and land management regimes over a six-year period spanning pre, during and post development/operational phases.
Baseline data is currently being collected and analysed, and monitoring methods are being finalised. Soil samples have been collected from across the experimental area on site and in adjacent fields. These samples will be analysed for organic carbon content, nutrient load and microbial activity. A network of static acoustic monitors has also been set up across the site to monitor bat and bird diversity with pollinator and terrestrial invertebrate surveys to follow.
By the end of this research project, the hope is to provide important in-situ empirical evidence to better understand how to maximise biodiversity benefits, carbon sequestration and soil health on solar farms, and so inform best-practice for the solar industry.