There are indeed specific tree species that are well-suited for noise reduction around solar facilities, primarily by serving as dense, year-round vegetative barriers that help block and absorb sound. While solar farms are generally quieter than wind farms, noise can still come from inverters and transformers on site, making noise mitigation necessary in some cases.
Tree Species Suitable for Noise Reduction in Solar Facilities
Several tree species recommended for planting around solar farms combine dense foliage, year-round greenery, and resilience, which help create effective noise buffers:
- Greenspire Linden (Tilia cordata ‘Greenspire’)
A dense, pyramidal-shaped tree with glossy green leaves. Its thick foliage is well-suited for blocking noise and providing a visually uniform barrier. It adapts well to various soil types and is hardy. - Harvest Gold Linden (Tilia x mongolica ‘Harvest Gold’)
Similar to the Greenspire Linden but notable for its striking golden fall color. It is resilient, low-maintenance, and its dense form adds both noise reduction and aesthetic value. - Globosa Spruce (Picea globosa)
A compact, globe-shaped evergreen with dense foliage that provides excellent year-round sound buffering due to its thick needles and shape. - Weeping Serbian Spruce (Picea omorika ‘Pendula’)
An evergreen with a graceful weeping form, offering year-round screening and dense foliage ideal for noise and visual barriers. - Canada Red Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana ‘Canada Red’)
Although less commonly highlighted specifically for noise reduction, it is often used in planting buffers for solar farms due to its adaptability and seasonal interest.
These species are selected not only for noise reduction but also for their ability to create an attractive buffer that enhances community acceptance of solar farms.
Additional Considerations
- Using a mix of coniferous (evergreens) and deciduous trees can optimize year-round noise reduction while supporting local biodiversity.
- Planting trees densely and in multiple rows increases efficacy as a noise barrier.
- Location of the planting relative to noise sources (inverters, transformers) and nearby receptors (homes, roads) should be carefully planned to maximize sound attenuation.
- Besides noise reduction, these trees provide additional benefits such as visual screening, habitat for wildlife, and wind buffering.
Summary
Planting dense, hardy trees like Greenspire Linden, Harvest Gold Linden, and various spruce species around solar farms can effectively reduce noise from facility equipment. These tree species combine year-round dense foliage and adaptability to different conditions, making them ideal for creating vegetative noise buffers that also improve the environmental and visual integration of solar energy projects.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-specific-tree-species-that-are-better-suited-for-noise-reduction-in-solar-facilities/
