Destructive Critters Pose Rare But Vexing Threat for Solar Power
- An ‘avian incident’ sparked a fire at California solar farm
- Water damage, holes in roofs among most common animal damage
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Trade wars and shrinking tax credits aren’t the only threat to solar power. Small critters can wreak havoc as well -- something a California system learned the hard way.
A bird, or perhaps multiple birds, ignited a fire on June 5 at the California Valley Solar Ranch, knocking out 84% of generating capacity and scorching 1,200 acres. Clearway Energy Inc., whose subsidiary owns the ranch, blamed the blaze on an “avian incident” that damaged distribution poles and cables. It didn’t elaborate how.