Impact of Floating Photovoltaic Power Stations on Local Climate: A Case Study of the Yanyangtian Photovoltaic Power Station in Baoying County

Abstract

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation is a key pathway for achieving the “dual carbon” strategic goals. In recent years, large-scale floating PV (FPV) development has raised growing concerns about its impact on local climate. This study selected the Yanyangtian PV power station in Baoying County, Jiangsu Province, as a case. Using satellite remote sensing and high-resolution climate reanalysis data, combined with buffer zone analysis and the coefficient of variation, this research systematically examines changes in local meteorological elements before and after station construction from a spatiotemporal perspective. In addition, by comparing changes in land use types in the study area, the influence of urbanization on local meteorological factors was excluded, confirming a strong association between PV station construction and local climate change. The main findings are as follows: (1) The construction of photovoltaic power stations affects local climate change. Temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, potential evapotranspiration, and wind speed all increased following construction, while variability and uncertainty in meteorological variables also changed. (2) In spring, maximum temperature declined, while minimum and average temperatures rose and temperature variation decreased. In summer and autumn, warming and humidifying effects were more observable. In winter, average wind speed increased most significantly, indicating a localized acceleration effect. (3) The impacts varied by month, with the clearest changes observed in March and November. The findings of this study offer valuable insights to support the green and sustainable development of FPV power generation.