Energy Transition and Land Use Change: the Emergence of Photovoltaic Infrastructure in the Agricultural Sector of the O’HIGGINS Region, Chile
Abstract
This study examines the rapid expansion of solar photovoltaic (PV) infrastructure in Chile’s O’Higgins Region and its implications for agricultural land use. Cartographic and geospatial analysis reveals that over 90% of PV projects are installed on previously cultivated land—a trend driven by national energy policies, growing water scarcity, and the economic appeal of long-term land lease agreements. A review of 100 environmental impact assessments indicates that solar energy infrastructure is increasingly occupying highly productive farmland, raising concerns about soil health, food security, and rural livelihoods. Although mitigation measures are proposed through Voluntary Environmental Commitments (CAVs), their scope and effectiveness remain limited and uncertain. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated energy and land-use planning that aligns renewable energy development with food security and social equity, offering a critical perspective on the socio-environmental dimensions of Chile’s energy transition.
Keywords
renewable energy development, territorial planning, soil degradation, agrivoltaics.