What California is learning from solar panels built over irrigation canals

California is testing solar panels installed over irrigation canals in Turlock through "Project Nexus," a pilot program designed to simultaneously address water loss and clean energy needs. The panels shade the canals to reduce evaporation—which UC Davis estimates could shrink California's water supply by 25% by 2050—while generating renewable electricity to help the state meet its goal of 100% clean electricity by 2045. This dual-purpose solution leverages California's 4,000 miles of open canals as potential sites for solar infrastructure expansion.