CHRIS HUBBUCH
As utilities and private developers scramble to replace coal-fired power plants with wind and solar farms, a new tool could help avoid conflicts with wildlife.By analyzing wildlife habitat and land use data, scientists at The Nature Conservancy found there is enough land in the central United States — including some 1.8 million acres in Wisconsin — to support nearly 10 times the nation’s current wind energy capacity with minimal impact to sensitive habitats.Nicholas Miller, Wisconsin director of science and strategy for The Nature Conservancy, said the “Site Renewables Right” tool provides a way for developers and communities to advance the clean energy transition while minimizing harm to habitats and species being threatened by climate change.“To tackle climate change, we need to transition to renewable energy, and…
Mapping tool aims to ease clean energy, wildlife conflicts | State & Regional
