Native vegetation O&M cost trajectory in solar installations
Key Finding
O&M costs with native vegetation are initially higher (years 1-3) but reduce by 30-40% after establishment.
Overview
NREL / Macknick et al. present compelling evidence for maintenance cost reduction through regenerative practices. This 2023 study demonstrates how alternative vegetation management approaches can significantly reduce O&M expenses while improving environmental outcomes.
Methodology
The study compared traditional mechanical maintenance approaches with regenerative alternatives, tracking costs, labor requirements, and operational metrics across multiple installations over extended periods.
Relevance to TerraNext
TerraNext's regenerative management philosophy aligns directly with these findings. O&M costs with native vegetation are initially higher (years 1-3) but reduce by 30-40% after establishment. Our approach incorporates directed grazing and native vegetation establishment to achieve similar cost reductions while building soil health and biodiversity.
Key Implications
- Maintenance costs can be reduced by 30-75% depending on approach
- Reduced mechanical intervention preserves soil structure and biology
- Lower cleaning frequency needed when dust generation is controlled at source
- Initial investment in regenerative transition typically pays back within 2-3 years
Why This Research Matters
Provides cost trajectory for planning regenerative transitions
NREL credibility strengthens business case
Key reference for financial modeling over project lifetime
Citation
NREL / Macknick et al. (2023). Native vegetation O&M cost trajectory in solar installations. Sustainability, 15, 5895. https://doi.org/10.3390/su15075895