Call for new EU policy that promotes nature-inclusive solar

A new policy paper shows that nature-inclusive solar parks can help mitigate the impacts of climate change and restore nature, however, a new, cross-sectorial EU policy framework is needed.

These are the key findings of a new policy paper, drafted by Metabolic on behalf of SolarPower Europe and The Nature Conservancy.

According to the paper, nature-inclusive solar parks can aid the EU meet the ambitions of its Nature Restoration Law, which came into effect on the 18th of August 2024 and aims to restore all degraded ecosystems by 2050.

However, for this to occur, clear policy frameworks are needed to define nature-inclusive concepts and incentivise development.

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A nature-inclusive park can be defined as a solar installation designed to produce renewable energy, while simultaneously enhancing local biodiversity, restoration and conservation on the same plot of land.

Currently, according to SolarPower Europe, a policy gap exists in Europe which shows a lack of a unified approach. This, in turn, creates uncertainty for developers and stakeholders alike.

Specifically, not all countries have incentive schemes in place for nature-inclusive solar and very few have established a science-based method to support policy measures.

Lina Dubina, policy advisor for Sustainability at SolarPower Europe, commented in a statement: “The Nature Conservancy and SolarPower Europe are calling for a coherent EU-wide policy framework that defines nature-inclusive solar, aligns with existing EU policies, and incorporates a monitoring and evaluation system. This kind of framework could simplify and standardise practices across EU countries, helping nature-friendly solar parks become more widespread and effective.”

To address this, the policy paper recommends:

1. Create a common, clear and ambitious definition of nature-inclusive solar parks at EU level;
2. Provide solar park development guidance to avoid and minimise biodiversity loss in planning during and after the construction phase, alongside practices to restore, offset, and/or add (net gain) biodiversity;
3. Develop and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation system.

Rebecca Humphries, head of Climate Policy Europe for The Nature Conservancy commented: "Policymakers now have a window of opportunity to use existing frameworks, such as the Nature Restoration Law or non-price criteria, as well as develop further tools to put in place credible definitions and indicators, in order to drive more investment into solar parks that protect and restore nature."