Hydrologic Response of Solar Farms
Publication: Journal of Hydrologic Engineering
Volume 18, Issue 5
Abstract
Because of the benefits of solar energy, the number of solar farms is increasing; however, their hydrologic impacts have not been studied. The goal of this study was to determine the hydrologic effects of solar farms and examine whether or not storm-water management is needed to control runoff volumes and rates. A model of a solar farm was used to simulate runoff for two conditions: the pre- and postpaneled conditions. Using sensitivity analyses, modeling showed that the solar panels themselves did not have a significant effect on the runoff volumes, peaks, or times to peak. However, if the ground cover under the panels is gravel or bare ground, owing to design decisions or lack of maintenance, the peak discharge may increase significantly with storm-water management needed. In addition, the kinetic energy of the flow that drains from the panels was found to be greater than that of the rainfall, which could cause erosion at the base of the panels. Thus, it is recommended that the grass beneath the panels be well maintained or that a buffer strip be placed after the most downgradient row of panels. This study, along with design recommendations, can be used as a guide for the future design of solar farms.
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Acknowledgments
The authors appreciate the photographs (Figs. 1 and 5) of Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, 1001 Route 202, North Raritan, New Jersey, 08869, provided by John E. Showler, Environmental Scientist, New Jersey Department of Agriculture. The extensive comments of reviewers resulted in an improved paper.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Hydrologic Engineering
Volume 18 • Issue 5 • May 2013
Pages: 536 - 541
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Aug 12, 2010
Accepted: Oct 20, 2011
Published online: Oct 24, 2011
Published in print: May 1, 2013
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