Sardinia study warns photovoltaic farms may alter local microclimate

Professor Giuseppe Pulina of the University of Sassari explained that photovoltaic panels change the local energy balance by intercepting solar radiation, which reduces the amount of energy reaching the ground. This modifies radiative fluxes, ventilation, evapotranspiration and heat exchange between soil and atmosphere, creating temperature differences between covered and uncovered areas. The magnitude and direction of these effects depend on the design of the installations, the regional climate and vegetation.

Pulina noted that, while scientific literature indicates solar farms can perturb microclimatic conditions, no dedicated study has yet quantified the impact in Sardinia. Existing agronomic or climatic reports attached to connection applications are insufficient for thorough assessment. He called for detailed measurements and careful design of photovoltaic systems to avoid adverse ecological effects and to possibly turn micro‑climatic changes into benefits for agricultural ecosystems.