Socio-environmental impact generated by the installation of a photovoltaic solar park on the banks of the César River in San Juan del Cesar, La Guajira

Abstract

This research was conducted with the overall objective of assessing the socio-environmental impact of the installation of the San Juan Photovoltaic Solar Park, an energy generation project with a projected installed capacity of 91.24 MWp. The location of the project, adjacent to the banks of the César River and the urban center of San Juan del Cesar, La Guajira, was the focus of the assessment. To achieve this objective, a descriptive field design was implemented, based on a methodological process that combined the collection of qualitative information with a semi-quantitative assessment of potential impacts. The information collection techniques applied included direct observation in situ, exhaustive document review, and interviews with a sample of 50 residents of the Nueva Colombia neighborhood. The results of the impact assessment (EIA) revealed the existence of significant impacts. Using a weighting matrix, scores classified as Severe or Critical (in the range of 44 to 53) were established, especially for highly sensitive biophysical components: soil (52), fauna (53), and, notably, water resources. It was identified that the construction phase would account for 30% of the severe impacts, while the operation phase would generate a Severe impact (50) on water resources from the César River. A land use conflict was confirmed, given that the main economic activity in the area of influence is agriculture. The main conclusion of the study is that, despite the positive social perception of job creation and free energy, there is a significant environmental impact that must be addressed through the urgent implementation of an Environmental Management Plan. This plan should prioritize mitigation strategies focused on water resource conservation, land compensation, and proper waste life cycle management, including metal and plastic waste.