Solar Panel Shade and Potential Health Impacts

Abstract/Summary:

Farmworkers are a particularly vulnerable population for heat-related illnesses because they perform manual labor outdoors, in direct sunlight, often in heavy, impermeable work clothing, during the hottest season (Association of Farmworker Opportunity Programs, 2024; El Khayat et al., 2022; EPA, 1983; Bethel and Harger, 2014). The trend of increasing temperatures globally will lead to an increase in heat-related deaths, heat stroke, and dehydration, as well as cardiovascular, respiratory, and cerebrovascular disease, particularly in sensitive populations (USGCRP, 2016).