The environmental impact of large scale solar energy projects on the MENA deserts: Best practices for the DESERTEC initiative

This research examines the positive and negative environmental impacts of large scale solar energy projects on the deserts of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The impacts have been subdivided into the following categories: land use, public health and safety, noise and visual impacts, air and water pollution, wildlife and habitat, water requirements, and climate and greenhouse gases. Based on this information, the article outlines a list of best practices that, if the DESERTEC initiative follows, will mitigate negative environmental impacts and maximize positive ones. The list of best practices proposes solutions for all of the previously mentioned categories, and in some instances, even offers opportunities. Additionally, the paper provides a short definition of the DESERTEC project and its vision. The environmental impacts, suggested best practices, and overview of the DESERTEC initiative are based on an in-depth and cross-disciplinary literature review. The paper concludes with a summary of the future research needed for a more accurate understanding of this subject.