Publication Date

Summer 2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Environmental Studies

Advisor

Dustin Mulvaney; Judi Heher; Richard Kos

Abstract

Utility-scale solar energy (USSE), defined as projects of at least 1 megawatt, is rapidly expanding in California, which generated 37.5% of its electricity from renewables in 2023, with 24% coming from solar. While USSE supports decarbonization, it can also cause environmental harm, including biodiversity loss, habitat fragmentation, and land conversion. This study uses ArcGIS Pro 3.4.0 and public environmental data to analyze the spatial distribution of USSE projects, land use changes from 2013 to 2023, and occurrences of at-risk species across California’s bioregions. USSE development is heavily concentrated in the Mojave Desert, San Joaquin Valley, and Colorado Desert, which are regions with both high solar potential and ecological sensitivity. Between 2013 and 2023, shrublands declined by approximately 15,451 acres, agricultural land by approximately 11,692 acres, and grassland/pasture by approximately 8,238 acres. Across USSE sites, 107 occurrences of at-risk species were documented, including federally and state-listed species. Only observed occurrences were counted, although modeling suggests additional species may be present. The findings highlight the ecological impacts of solar expansion and emphasize the need for improved siting strategies that balance renewable energy goals with biodiversity conservation.

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