What California is learning from solar panels built over irrigation canals

California is experimenting with solar panels built over irrigation canals to generate renewable energy while also reducing evaporation from the water. The California Department of Water Resources has installed solar panels on 10 canals in the Sacramento Valley, covering a total of 100 miles. The project is expected to generate 1.5 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 400 homes. The solar panels are designed to float on the water and are secured to the canal bed using anchors. The panels are made of a durable material that can withstand the weight of the water and the sun's heat. The project aims to not only reduce energy costs but also minimize evaporation from the canals, which can reach up to 50% of the water in the canals. By covering the canals, the project can reduce evaporation by up to 90%. The project is part of a larger effort to increase the state's use of renewable energy and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.