The land use requirement for solar panels varies primarily based on the scale of the project, the technology used, and regional zoning or regulatory constraints, but typical values fall within a general range.
Typical Land Use Amounts per Megawatt
- Utility-scale solar plants generally require between 5 and 10 acres per megawatt (MW) of generating capacity. This variation depends on different factors including panel type and tracking systems.
- According to U.S. data, the capacity-weighted average land use is about 7.3 acres per MWac (megawatt alternating current), with many plants falling between 6 to 8 acres/MWac. For smaller photovoltaic (PV) systems under 20 MW, fixed-tilt installations range from 2.2 to 8 acres/MWac, averaging around 5.5 acres/MWac, while 1-axis tracking systems require slightly more land, averaging 6.3 acres/MWac.
- YSG Solar highlights that local regulations typically allow solar panels to cover only about 60% of a parcel’s land area, so even if 10 acres are leased, only about 6 acres might be effectively used for a 1 MWdc system, reflecting a norm of roughly 5 acres per MW for usable solar panel installation.
Regional and Regulatory Influences
- Local zoning laws and land-use ordinances strongly influence land requirements by restricting how much of a parcel can be developed, imposing setbacks, and managing proximity to utilities like substations.
- Some regions limit the total amount of solar power allowable, meaning land use for solar installation is also impacted by these regulatory caps or by evolving energy policies and land-use planning.
- Additionally, the type of solar project (utility-scale, community-scale, rooftop) dictates land use specifics and applicable regulations, which vary by region.
Summary
| Factor | Land Use Range (acres/MW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Utility-scale solar (average) | 5 – 10 | Influenced by panel type & tracking |
| Fixed-tilt small PV (<20 MW) | 2.2 – 8, avg 5.5 | Less land if fixed panels |
| 1-axis tracking small PV | 4.2 – 10.6, avg 6.3 | Requires more spacing |
| Regulatory & zoning impact | Varies | Typically limits usable area to ~60% |
| Land use per MW effective | ~5 | After setbacks and zoning constraints |
In essence, while solar land use intensity is broadly consistent within the U.S. (roughly 5 to 7 acres per MW), specific land requirements vary by region due to differences in local zoning rules, solar technology employed, and project scale. Developers must consider these factors along with proximity to utilities and environmental constraints before selecting land for solar projects.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-does-the-land-use-requirement-for-solar-panels-vary-by-region/
