The proximity and land use of solar arrays can significantly affect property values by driving negative impacts, particularly when installations are close to residential areas or alter the natural landscape.
Impact of Proximity to Solar Arrays on Property Values
- Proximity Effects: Studies have consistently shown that properties closer to utility-scale solar arrays experience higher reductions in value. For example, homes within 0.5 to 0.6 miles of a solar farm often see a decrease in value ranging from 1.5% to 3.6%, translating to a monetary reduction of $4,721 to $11,330 in certain cases. This effect is more pronounced in rural areas, where solar farms on previously untouched land can reduce housing values by 2.5% to 5.8%.
- Perception of Proximity: Surveys and analyses indicate that assessors and residents generally perceive a negative impact on property values when solar installations are closer than a mile from residential areas. This perception, while not always uniformly supported by empirical data, contributes to reduced property values due to perceived aesthetic or other disamenities.
Impact of Land Use on Property Values
- Conversion of Land Use: When solar farms are built on farm and forest lands, particularly in non-rural or rural settings, they can alter the natural landscape and affect property values negatively. The installation of solar arrays in these areas reduces the desirability of the surrounding landscape, impacting property values by replacing open spaces with industrial installations.
- Agricultural Land: While there is no direct evidence of solar farms impacting agricultural land values negatively, the presence of transmission lines associated with solar installations can indirectly increase agricultural land value. This suggests that infrastructure development related to solar projects can enhance land value in specific contexts.
- Urban vs. Rural Areas: In urban or densely populated areas, the impact of solar arrays on property values may be less significant compared to rural areas, where the visual impact and alteration of natural landscapes are more pronounced.
In summary, proximity and land use patterns play a crucial role in determining the negative impact of solar arrays on property values. Closer proximity, especially in rural settings, tends to affect property values more significantly, while the conversion of natural or agricultural land into solar installations also contributes to these negative effects.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-proximity-and-land-use-affect-the-negative-impact-of-solar-arrays-on-property-values/
