
Solar arrays are collections of solar panels whose function is to collect sunlight and convert it into electricity. Businesses, farmers, NGO’s and even government entities are installing solar arrays on their property in order to save money and provide a more environmentally friendly method of energy production. Farmers and large land-owners can even take advantage of programs that allow them to lease their land for large-scale solar arrays. They earn revenue for every acre utilized for the duration of the lease.
The land within and surrounding solar arrays is an ideal place to install pollinator habitats. Plant height is an important factor when designing mixes for solar arrays. Any plant used in between the rows and in the buffer zones around the solar panels cannot be so tall that they will shade the panels. A general rule of thumb is to choose plants with a maximum height equal to or less than the height of the lowest edge of the solar panels.
For some solar installations, these standard pollinator mixes will be suitable as long as the project site has average soil conditions.