Chair: solar panels in pastures vulnerable to wildfire, wind-turbine risk unclear

Questioner raised whether renewable-energy installations such as solar farms and wind turbines were at risk from the ongoing fires. The Chair said solar panels placed low in pastures would likely be vulnerable, while the effect on wind turbines was unclear and may depend on circumstances.

"Solar panels are right there in the middle of the pasture... But all those are situations that could be devastated and stay if something happens," the Chair said, and added he had not heard of destroyed solar panels as of the interview. (Chair)

Why it matters: renewable-energy infrastructure can be a local economic asset but may be vulnerable in large wildfires; communities and owners may need mitigation plans.

What happens next: the Chair said immediate priorities remain animal welfare and firefighting support; he suggested investigating wind-turbine damage and monitoring solar installations.