Solar farms managed for nature can boost bird numbers and biodiversity - RSPB

Research by the RSPB and Cambridge University shows how management can benefit wildlife.

A new study shows how solar farms could help boost bird numbers and increase the variety of wildlife. With competing pressures on UK land, this offers a solution that would help the UK deliver on clean energy and for nature.

Nearly three times as many birds

The research by scientists from the RSPB and University of Cambridge as part of the Centre for Landscape Regeneration found that – hectare for hectare – solar farms in agriculturally dominated East Anglia contained a greater number of bird species and overall number of birds than surrounding arable farmland.

Solar farms managed with nature in mind and in areas with a greater mix of habitats proved the best performers, having the greatest variety of species and nearly three times as many birds compared to nearby arable farmland.

Action for nature and climate

The UK is committed to reaching net zero by 2050, which means moving from fossils fuels to clean energy such as solar and wind. Areas of land devoted to solar farms are increasing but are sometimes assumed to be bad for nature. Many of these new farms are likely to be sited on agricultural land in lowland England.

However, such areas also contain relatively high densities of farmland bird species, many of which are already under pressure and have declining populations. Finding ways in productive landscapes to meet the UK’s climate and nature targets will be critical for a sustainable future.

The RSPB’s Chief Executive Beccy Speight said: “Delivering a future that safeguards nature, tackles climate change, ensures food security and resilient farm businesses, and enables sustainable development is the only sensible path. This research shows that it is possible to balance competing needs."