The US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) has introduced the Solar with Wildlife and Ecosystem Benefits 2 (SolWEB2) initiative, a funding opportunity designed to allocate up to US$11 million for innovative research, technical assistance, and stakeholder collaboration. The program aims to improve the coexistence of large-scale solar (LSS) facilities with wildlife habitats and agricultural landscapes while mitigating land-use conflicts that arise from the rapid growth of solar energy infrastructure.
The SolWEB2 initiative addresses a pressing need as the development of large-scale solar (LSS) facilities accelerates across the United States. Over the past decade, more than 5,000 such facilities have been constructed, and this expansion is expected to continue. However, this growth has led to increased interactions between solar projects and surrounding environments, including natural ecosystems and agricultural areas. Land-use conflicts during the siting and permitting of LSS facilities are becoming more frequent, underscoring the necessity of strategies that balance energy production with environmental and community needs.
SolWEB2’s Focus Areas and Funding Details
SETO plans to support three to eight projects through SolWEB2, with individual awards ranging from US$1 million to $3 million. These projects will focus on two primary areas, each addressing different aspects of the initiative’s goals:
1. Wildlife-Solar Energy Research, Technical Assistance, and Stakeholder Engagement:
This topic area aims to enhance the compatibility of LSS facilities with wildlife and ecosystems. Two to five projects will explore strategies to reduce negative impacts on wildlife while maximizing ecological benefits. Specific initiatives under this area include:
- Testing and Implementing Wildlife-Friendly Practices: Projects will evaluate methods such as wildlife-permeable fencing, management of native vegetation, wildlife movement corridors, and construction practices that limit soil and vegetation disturbance.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Technical Support: Efforts will focus on improving the siting and permitting processes for LSS facilities. This includes developing resources, facilitating multi-stakeholder discussions, and providing technical assistance to integrate the latest findings on wildlife-solar interactions into decision-making.
2. Agrivoltaics Technical Assistance and Stakeholder Engagement:
This topic area targets the dual use of land for agricultural production and solar energy generation, known as agrivoltaics. SETO intends to fund one to three projects in this category, emphasizing:
- The creation and dissemination of accessible informational resources and data.
- Educational initiatives aimed at engaging new audiences and stakeholders.
- Support for collaborations between farmers, developers, and rural communities.
These projects will apply current research findings to foster partnerships and benefit those involved in agricultural and solar energy sectors.
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Facilitating Collaboration Through Teaming Partner List
To encourage effective partnerships, DOE has established a Teaming Partner List, accessible via the EERE eXCHANGE platform. The list allows organizations interested in participating in SolWEB2 projects to connect and form collaborations. Prospective partners can submit their details, including background, capabilities, and contact information, to be included on the list. The DOE emphasizes that inclusion on the list does not imply endorsement or qualification assessment by the agency.
Key Dates and Webinar Details
The Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) was issued on December 23, 2024. A mandatory concept paper is due by February 14, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET, with full applications to be submitted by May 2, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET. An informational webinar will be held on January 9, 2024, at 3 p.m. ET to provide further details about the funding opportunity and its requirements. The selection of awardees is anticipated by July 15, 2025, with negotiations expected to conclude by December 2025.
This initiative represents a concerted effort to ensure that the growth of solar energy infrastructure aligns with ecological stewardship and the sustainable use of land resources. Interested organizations are encouraged to participate in the webinar and begin preparing concept papers to take part in this funding opportunity.
The SolWEB2 initiative highlights DOE’s commitment to addressing the environmental and community challenges posed by the rapid expansion of solar energy infrastructure. By supporting research and fostering collaboration, the program aims to ensure that LSS facilities contribute to clean energy goals while respecting ecological and agricultural needs.
