Public announcement of environmental impact assessment of photovoltaic bracket accessories

What are the environmental impacts of PV installation?

The following are the environmental impacts: Land use is one of the significant problems in the operational stage. Small-scale PV installation generally does not require much land area, but large-scale PV installation requires a vast land area.

What is the final programmatic EIS & proposed RMPA?

The Final Programmatic EIS and Proposed RMPA seek to update the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) 2012 Western Solar Plan to support current and future national clean energy goals, long-term energy security, climate resilience, and improved conservation outcomes.

What are the environmental impacts of a solar PV module?

A solar PV module using this technology has thin layers that contain materials such as CdTe and CdS. Here, Cd is the most toxic substance. It has substantial environmental impacts and its release into the atmosphere causes health impacts. Cd emissions from CdTe are around 0.26 g/GWh.

When did the BLM start a programmatic EIS for solar energy development?

The BLM initiated the Programmatic EIS for solar energy development in December 2022, beginning with a 60-day scoping period which included 15 public scoping meetings. This was followed by release of the draft updated Plan in January 2024 with a 90-day public comment period and a series of public open house meetings.

What are the environmental effects of photovoltaics?

The leak of materials such as cadmium in oxide form. Pollution related to land is also one of the considerable environmental impacts. Effect on aquatic life due to floating and submerged photovoltaics. Contamination of water, land, and air due to harmful emissions. Harmful acids and other chemicals are used. NA—not applicable. 12.5. Conclusion

How many acres of public lands would be excluded from solar applications?

The Proposed RMP would exclude approximately 131 million acres of public lands from solar applications to protect sensitive resources as described in the exclusion criteria in the Final Programmatic EIS. Approximately 31 million acres of public lands would be available for solar applications under the Proposed RMP.