Solar trees preserve 99% of forests, mimic nature to generate energy

A recent study published in Scientific Reports highlights the potential of vertically designed “solar trees” as an innovative renewable energy solution that can generate electricity comparable to conventional solar farms while preserving up to 99% of forest cover. Unlike traditional ground-mounted solar panels that require extensive forest clearing, solar trees are structured to allow sunlight to penetrate to the vegetation below, minimizing ecological disruption. The study modeled solar trees based on an installation in Seoul, with each tree holding multiple solar panels and standing about 15.7 feet tall. Simulations showed that 63 to 87 solar trees could produce 1 megawatt (MW) of power—matching the output of a 2014 flat-panel solar plant in South Korea—while maintaining nearly all of the original forest. The research utilized 3D geospatial data and satellite imagery to visualize and analyze the integration of solar trees into forested landscapes, demonstrating that these installations could be arranged with minimal impact on the ecosystem. Positioned along site boundaries and trails with appropriate spacing