Navigating the Nexus between Renewable Energy and Biodiversity: Impacts and Mitigation Strategies for Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Systems

Christa Hainz-Renetzeder; Thomas  Schauppenlehner; Patrick Scherhaufer; Bärbel Pachinger

doi:10.3097/LO.2025.1141

Authors

Christa Hainz-Renetzeder BOKU University, Institute of Landscape Development, Recreation and Conservation Planning, Vienna; Austria https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4363-011X
Thomas Schauppenlehner BOKU University, Institute of Landscape Development, Recreation and Conservation Planning, Vienna; Austria https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2552-210X
Patrick Scherhaufer BOKU University, Institute of Forest, Environmental and Natural Resource Policy, Vienna; Austria https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6531-296X
Bärbel Pachinger BOKU University, Institute of Integrative Nature Conservation Research, Vienna; Austria https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1413-2752

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3097/LO.2025.1141

Keywords:

renewable energy, biodiversity, mitigation hierarchy, monitoring, strategic conservation planning

Abstract

The dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss demand integrated approaches to align renewable energy expansion with ecological conservation. Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems, a key component of renewable energy strategies, require significant land use, potentially impacting already vulnerable ecosystems. This study reviews the scientific literature on the ecological effects of ground-mounted PV systems under Central European conditions, with Austria as a case study. Findings reveal scattered evidence of altered environmental conditions, such as changes in microclimate and soil properties, and direct impacts on biodiversity, including habitat loss, fragmentation, and species behaviour. Current planning guidelines in Austria inconsistently address biodiversity concerns, often neglecting habitats outside protected areas. Mitigation measures, such as grazing, hedgerows, and structural elements, are widely recommended but lack robust scientific validation. The study highlights the urgent need for standardized Before-After-Control-Impact (BACI) studies and adaptive monitoring to better understand biodiversity impacts and improve mitigation. Strategic conservation planning at the landscape level is essential to balance energy and ecological goals, ensuring sustainable development. This research underscores the importance of harmonizing renewable energy policies with biodiversity conservation to address the intertwined climate and biodiversity crises effectively.

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