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Effect of photovoltaic power plant on the microclimate and soil: A comprehensive analysis based on time series

Author

Listed:
  • Li, Zaixin
  • Tao, Junyu
  • Zhang, Jia
  • Wang, Yifan
  • Zhong, Yuzhen
  • Ge, Yadong
  • Cheng, Zhanjun
  • Yan, Beibei
  • Chen, Guanyi

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the environmental impacts of photovoltaic power plants on local microclimates and soil conditions, with a specific focus on seasonal variations and the predictive potential of time series modeling. The research was conducted in Northwest China, using a representative photovoltaic power plant and nearby control sites as study objects. A high-resolution dataset spanning an entire year was gathered using meteorological towers and soil sensors. Methodologically, statistical analyses, including seasonal decomposition and time series modeling, were applied to identify trends and correlations. Results revealed that photovoltaic systems significantly influence environmental parameters, such as air temperature fluctuations ranging from −2.49 °C to 3.17 °C, a 0.93 % increase in air humidity during winter, and a 25 % rise in soil moisture during rainfall. Shallow soil layers experienced greater variability in thermal and moisture conditions, highlighting the shading and heat retention effects of the panels. Modeling indicated that air temperature and shallow soil temperature are reliable indicators of environmental impacts, with predictive models achieving R2 values of 0.80 and 0.89, respectively. These findings are adaptable to optimizing photovoltaic system designs across similar arid and semi-arid regions, supporting ecological sustainability and energy efficiency. Future research should explore broader climatic contexts and long-term ecological impacts.

Suggested Citation

  • Li, Zaixin & Tao, Junyu & Zhang, Jia & Wang, Yifan & Zhong, Yuzhen & Ge, Yadong & Cheng, Zhanjun & Yan, Beibei & Chen, Guanyi, 2025. "Effect of photovoltaic power plant on the microclimate and soil: A comprehensive analysis based on time series," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 334(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:334:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225031937
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.137551
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    2. Zhou, Qianyu & Wang, Zhenxiang & Lin, Pengcheng & Chen, Ying, 2026. "Self-adaptive photovoltaic power generation under day-night large temperature differences enabled by phase change brine gels with high latent heat and high thermal conductivity," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 344(C).

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