Federal Government Backs California’s Plan to Install Solar Panels Over Canals

Proponents say the projects will lead to less water evaporation and potentially less invasive aquatic plant growth as panels will shade water in the canal.

Water flows through a canal near Exeter, Calif., on Aug. 26, 2022. Mario Tama/Getty Images

SANTA NELLA, Calif.—A division of the federal government announced April 4 a $15 million solar-over-canals pilot project in California, which officials say could conserve water and potentially reduce the cost of power and water in the state.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom joined members from the Biden administration and two local Congressmen, among others, to celebrate the announcement at a press conference at a pumping station on the Delta-Mendota aqueduct in Santa Nella in the Central Valley.