DOE Invests $11M to Harmonize Solar Growth with Wildlife Preservation

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DOE unleashes $11M funding initiative through SolWEB2 to resolve conflicts between solar facilities and wildlife conservation across America.

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The American landscape transformed with 5,000+ utility-scale solar facilities in the past decade, sparking concerns over land preservation.

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SolWEB2 program targets 3-8 innovative projects, with concept papers due February 14, 2025, following January's informational session.

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Local communities resist as solar expansion threatens wildlife corridors, leading to widespread bans on utility-scale installations.

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Agrivoltaic systems emerge as promising solutions, combining solar arrays with active farming to maximize land utilization.

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DOE seeks strategies for protecting ecosystems while expanding clean energy infrastructure.

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Proposals must demonstrate practical approaches to balance renewable energy expansion with wildlife habitat preservation.

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