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How does solar energy transform landscapes? A comparative spatial analysis of 46 built solar power plants in the Netherlands

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  • Becker, Florian
  • Oudes, Dirk
  • Stremke, Sven

Abstract

The growing number of solar power plants (SPP) is transforming landscapes worldwide. This transformation leads to societal concerns regarding land use competition, biodiversity loss, and landscape experience, leading to local opposition. Two kinds of spatial measures can address aforementioned societal concerns: alterations of the photovoltaic system and adding landscape elements. Existing research mainly focused on single societal concerns or lacks substantial empirical case evidence. This study provides an overview of and critically assesses the range and extent of spatial measures that materialise in built SPPs, based on the sample of 46 SPPs in the Netherlands.

Suggested Citation

  • Becker, Florian & Oudes, Dirk & Stremke, Sven, 2025. "How does solar energy transform landscapes? A comparative spatial analysis of 46 built solar power plants in the Netherlands," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 253(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:253:y:2025:i:c:s0960148125012832
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123621
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    References listed on IDEAS

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