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California Needs Water and Clean Power. It Might Have a Fix for Both.

NYT > Science·June 22, 2026
California Needs Water and Clean Power. It Might Have a Fix for Both.

California is exploring a potential solution to its water and clean power needs through a pilot program. The program involves building solar panels over irrigation canals, which generates electricity while also providing shade. This shade has the added benefit of preventing water from evaporating, conserving a vital resource. By combining solar power generation with water conservation, the state may be able to address two pressing issues simultaneously.

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