Early siting methods and tools for mitigating ecological impacts of onshore centralized photovoltaics and wind farms
China’s rapid growth in photovoltaic and wind power has intensified concern over ecological impacts, yet effective mitigation tools remain underused. This review synthesizes global and domestic strategies for reducing impacts from onshore, centralized renewable projects. Early site planning emerges as the most cost‑effective approach, supported by environmental and social impact assessments, sensitivity mapping, Development by Design and integrated spatial‑planning tools. The authors outline five priorities for improving ecological outcomes: advancing research on species‑level impacts, simplifying siting tools, strengthening cross‑sector coordination, establishing long‑term monitoring and enhancing policy support tailored to local conditions. These steps can help align renewable‑energy expansion with ecological‑friendly development and biodiversity conservation.
Subject Tags
- Biodiversity
- Renewable energy
Abstract
Background & Aims:
In recent years, China’s rapid expansion of photovoltaics (PVs) and wind power capacity has triggered attention and discussions on their ecological issues. Effective mitigation measures and tools are urgently needed but remain underutilized. This study reviews domestic and international mitigation measures based on the ecological impacts of onshore centralized PVs and wind power plants.
Review Results:
Our findings indicate that early site planning is the most effective and cost-efficient approach to avoiding adverse impacts. From a landscape perspective, key planning methods for mitigating ecological impacts include the environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) and sensitivity mapping for risk screening, the Development by Design (DbD), combination of spatial planning and sensitivity mapping, and compatibility assessments between renewable energy and biological resources for integrated spatial planning. These methods help guide the renewable energy siting process based on ecological impacts and risks.
Recommendations:
We propose five priorities for improving site selection and mitigation of ecological impacts in China: (1) Enhancing research on ecological impacts of PVs and wind power plants, focusing on endangered and sensitive species and their habitats, and developing mitigation strategies; (2) Simplifying siting methods and decision-making tools, and training professionals for effective implementation; (3) Strengthening cross-sector coordination to align land-use planning with solar and wind power development, and optimizing tools for ecological-friendly site selection for renewable energy projects, particularly in repurposing areas like abandoned mines. New projects must incorporate mitigation measures into design before construction; (4) Establishing a continuous ecological impact monitoring system to assess and adapt mitigation measures over time; (5) Strengthening policy support for ecological-friendly wind and solar development, by issuing technical guidelines and standards for ecological conservation and restoration. Policies should be adapted to local conditions, avoiding “one-size-fits-all” approach, and promoting innovative, eco-friendly renewable energy development models.
Citation
Yunyue, P., Yongmei, L., Tong, J., Jiaying, L., & Yufeng, C. (2025). Early siting methods and tools for mitigating ecological impacts of onshore centralized photovoltaics and wind farms. Biodiversity Science, 33(1), 24063. https://doi.org/10.17520/biods.2024063
TNC Authors
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Peng Yunyue
Science Specialist, China
The Nature Conservancy
Email: yunyue.peng@tnc.org -
Yongmei Luo
Conservation Information and Strategy Senior Manager, China
The Nature Conservancy
Email: yluo@tnc.org -
Tong Jin
The Nature Conservancy