Studies map microclimates beneath solar panels to help native vegetation thrive in the shadow of renewable energy

Using solar energy is good for the environment, but look down, and the grass isn't always greener. Solar farms can generate massive amounts of renewable energy, but when they're built in natural areas, they change the growing conditions underneath the panels. That can make it easy for native grasses to be squeezed out by invasive weeds and non-native plants. On top of that, fast-growing turf or other non-native grasses are often used as a less costly, more convenient replacement in reclamation efforts.