Working Group 4: Information Tools
Overview
While there are many information tools and much data available to inform solar siting, design and operations, some tools are duplicative, some information needs are not yet met, and a comprehensive central repository of these tools is lacking. The Information Tools Working Group will catalogue existing information tools that relate to climate, conservation, and community, creating a searchable database tool. The group will then analyze the database to understand the range of available information and tools compared to desired capabilities and data, with the goal of identifying where new tools and capabilities are needed and to avoid duplication of efforts. Building on this gaps analysis, the group will prepare a set of recommendations for future tool development.
Key Deliverables
Deliverable #1: Information Tools Database
The Working Group has identified more than 130 information tools and will develop this collection into a searchable database. Each record in the database would consist of a link to the information tool, a brief description, and a range of metadata fields to support searching, filtering, and analysis. The tool will be hosted on a web-based platform to support broad public access.
Deliverable #2: Information Tools Gaps Analysis
Through analysis of the information tool database, discussion within Working Group 4, and targeted interviews with tool developers and other relevant experts, the group will identify key information needs relevant to large-scale U.S. solar development that are not addressed by currently available tools. Building on this analysis, the group will develop a set of recommendations for expansion or modification of existing tools and the development of new tools.
Project Timeline
All products will be completed by the end of 2026 and made available to the public in early 2027.
Resources
Working Group Co-Chairs
Liz Kalies – The Nature Conservancy
Lindsey Guinther – Lightsource BP
Jordan Macknick – National Lab of the Rockies