USA — Scientists say installing massive wind and solar farms across the Sahara Desert could affect the weather. <br /><br />According to a paper published in the journal Science, the wind turbines could help to double the amount of rain in the region.<br /><br />The researchers say the wind turbines would work to mix warmer air from above and cooler air from below to create a "feedback loop" which would increase precipitation and vegetation growth.<br /><br />The large solar panel farms would absorb a larger percentage of the sunlight in the area, leading to cooler temperatures.<br /><br />The researchers also believe, the energy generated from the wind and solar farms could meet global energy demands.<br /><br />According to the author of the study, the plan "could help agriculture, economic development and social well-being in the Sahara … and other nearby regions.
