Ecological Assessment for 2 Solar PV Power Plants

Momnai Energy Ltd planned to develop 2 projects, a 14.5MWac Solar PV Power Plant and Approx. 3km long 33 kV Transmission Line at Bamburi, Mombasa County and 5MWac Solar PV Power Plant and Approx. 1.7 km 6.6 kV Transmission Line at Athi River, Machakos County. Solar power, a rapidly growing form of renewable energy, reduces reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, making it one of the fastest-growing energy sources. Despite its growth, understanding the impacts of projects on biodiversity and ecosystem services is essential. Careful planning ensures that environmental benefits are maximised while minimising impacts on biodiversity and habitats.

In order to document any impacts, the proposed projects might have on biodiversity and associated ecosystem services, detailed ecological studies were conducted at the 2 sites. Using standard methodology, all terrestrial biodiversity aspects, namely, Plants, Mammals (bats, small & large mammals), Birds, Herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians) and Invertebrates were surveyed. For various taxonomic groups, the number of species encountered, their distribution in space and microhabitats were documented. Additionally, IUCN-listed species, migratory species, as well as invasive animal and plant species occurring in the project areas were recorded.

The study results were used to recommend measures to mitigate impacts on biodiversity and habitats.