Desert solar panel projects face increased scrutiny

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Podcasts Take Two

Nov 12, 2013

Listen • 6:04

Desert solar panel projects face increased scrutiny

Birds are having a tough time trying to fly through the heat given off by solar thermal projects that have sprung up all over the California desert. With more of these projects looking to get green lit, what will that mean for the birds that are just trying to fly on through?

Giant wind turbines are powered by strong winds in front of solar panels on March 27, 2013 in Palm Springs, California. According to reports, California continues to lead the nation in green technology and has the lowest greenhouse gas emissions per capita, even with a growing economy and population.

Birds are having a tough time trying to fly through the heat given off by solar thermal projects that have sprung up all over the California desert. With more of these projects looking to get green lit, what will that mean for the birds that are just trying to fly on through?

In San Bernardino County, birds are being found with their flight feathers singed and burned off their wings.

The birds are having a tough time trying to fly through the heat given off by solar thermal projects that have sprung up all over the California desert. With more of these projects looking to get green lit, what will that mean for the birds that are just trying to fly on through?

K Kaufman, reporter for the Palm Springs Desert Sun, joins the show with more.