Land Surface Temperature Responses to Solar Farms

Position Description: Solar farms are increasingly being implemented worldwide to reduce carbon emissions. However, their potential effects on land surface temperature remain uncertain and may depend on various factors such as the location and size of the solar farm, the efficiency of electricity conversion, and the local climate and topography. Some studies suggest that solar farms can cool the land surface due to the conversion of radiation to electricity, while others show that they can increase local temperatures by decreasing surface albedo. There has not been a thorough understanding of the global temperature response to solar farms using real-world observations. Here, we aim to investigate the land surface temperature responses to solar farms worldwide using various satellite observations to provide a comprehensive understanding of the real-world effects of solar farms. This study may help guide site selection for the massive deployment of solar farms worldwide.

Project Dates: June 5-June 23, 2023

Number of Available Positions: 1

Location: In-person

Pay Rate: $700 stipend at completion of program

Qualifications/Requirements:

• No prior knowledge of the topic is necessary

• High school mathematics/physics

• Computer-related skills

• Computer and internet connection required

The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) welcomes everyone and aims for a diverse and inclusive community.  Preference will be given to freshman and sophomore students, but we encourage all interested students to apply. Students who are already working with members of the EPS community and non-Harvard students are not eligible for this position.