Overlooking Brownfields for Renewable Energy? Here’s What We’re Missing.

Brownfields are often misunderstood as heavily contaminated industrial sites or sprawling landfills, but the reality is much broader.

A brownfield is any previously developed land not currently in use and may have minor to severe environmental contamination. This broad category includes everything from abandoned commercial lots and parking areas to decommissioned municipal facilities, unused agricultural lands, and vacant industrial sites.

Understanding the diversity of brownfields is crucial because it reveals that not all are plagued with high-risk contaminants or insurmountable barriers to redevelopment. In fact, many brownfields present relatively low environmental risk, making them prime candidates for repurposing. These diverse sites bring renewable energy developers access to an untapped resource.

Why brownfields are an untapped resource for renewable energy

The sheer number of brownfields available is vast and underutilized, with thousands of potential sites across the U.S. alone. There are as many as 425,000 throughout the U.S., with other estimates suggesting that there are 5 million acres of brownfields in urban areas.

With the increasing demand for renewable energy, these untapped sites provide a sustainable land-use solution. Unlike greenfield sites, developers can mitigate land-use conflicts, preserve natural habitats, and reduce the strain on undisturbed landscapes.

Also, many of these sites are connected to or near existing infrastructure, such as roads and power lines, making development more efficient and cost-effective. Instead of starting from scratch, developers working on brownfields benefit from access to vital infrastructure that simplifies the connection to power grids and reduces the environmental impact of new construction.

Take, for example, Amazon converting a 45-acre former coal mine in Maryland into a 300,000-panel solar farm, leveraging the site’s existing infrastructure to transmission lines and public roads.

Key types of brownfields suited for renewable energy

Brownfields vary widely, and certain types are particularly suited for renewable energy projects:

1. Defunct municipal facilities - Municipal sites such as decommissioned wastewater treatment plants, vacant government buildings, or old parking lots present excellent opportunities for renewable projects. These sites are often centrally located and may be close to residential areas and existing utility connections.
   
   
2. Underutilized agricultural lands - Like overworked farm plots, former agricultural brownfields offer ideal conditions for solar farms or even agrivoltaics, where solar energy production coexists with agriculture. This approach preserves the land’s agricultural heritage while adapting it for sustainable energy production.
   
   
3. Vacant industrial sites with minimal contamination- Not all industrial sites are heavily contaminated; some have minimal environmental hazards, making them easier to develop. Old warehouses or manufacturing sites can often accommodate large-scale solar or wind projects without extensive remediation.

Benefits of expanding renewable energy projects to diverse brownfield sites

Environmental restoration - Redeveloping brownfields for renewable energy contributes to environmental restoration. Many brownfields go unused for years, contributing to urban decay and sometimes leaching pollutants into nearby soil and water. Renewable energy projects can transform these sites into productive, safe areas, improving local environmental quality and protecting nearby ecosystems.

Economic development - Brownfield development can offer substantial economic benefits, particularly in underdeveloped or struggling areas. Renewable energy projects on these sites create jobs, attract investment, and improve property values. For communities that once relied on industrial or commercial businesses, these projects can breathe new economic life into the area. 

A notable case is underway in Ohio, where state and county officials recently announced $106.9 million in state funding to assist with the cleanup and redevelopment of 61 hazardous brownfield sites across 22 counties. The Cuyahoga Land Bank was awarded $23 million for large-scale demolitions and additional funding to clean up former industrial and commercial sites, paving the way for new development projects.

Efficient use of infrastructure - Because brownfields often come with pre-existing infrastructure, such as utility hookups, roads, and even certain structural elements, developing on these sites reduces construction costs and timelines. This efficiency can fast-track project completion and minimize the environmental footprint of new greenfield construction.

How to address challenges in brownfield development

While brownfields offer significant potential, they also present unique challenges:

1. Assessing and mitigating contamination risks: Environmental risks are common on brownfields, and developers must assess these thoroughly before proceeding. Environmental site assessments (ESAs) and ALTA surveys help evaluate contamination levels, and cleanup initiatives can be implemented as needed.
   
   
2. Navigating permitting and regulatory hurdles: Brownfield development often involves specific regulatory requirements. Understanding local, state, and federal regulations early on can streamline permitting processes and help avoid delays.
   
   
3. Ensuring community buy-in: Engaging with local residents and addressing their concerns about safety, aesthetics, and environmental impact can foster trust and reduce resistance to brownfield projects.

Brownfields play a crucial role in advancing renewable energy sustainability goals. Repurposing them for clean energy conserves land, prevents urban sprawl, and helps meet carbon reduction targets, particularly benefiting underserved communities. Additionally, brownfields near urban areas support decentralized power generation, reducing transmission needs and boosting grid resilience. With the right strategy, brownfields can be pivotal for sustainable land use and renewable energy growth.

Ready to rethink your strategy and explore brownfield development? See how Transect can help you find and assess sites in minutes—get a demo today!