Solar Array Pile Optimization

As solar energy generation is becoming more prevalent and requires more land usage, many real estates with uneven terrain that were deemed too costly for solar generation facilities years ago could potentially be utilized for future development. The challenge of installing solar arrays on these premises is due to the allowable pile reveal height of the solar arrays and the consistent slope of the PV tracker, which conflicts with the natural undulating surface of the earth. One solution is to use a tracker pile slope optimization technique. This technique was developed by applying an x and y intercept concept to the overall pile array alignment and setting up limiting parameters as set forth by the tracker manufacturer and pile structural engineer. This application has proven efficient in many utility scale solar generation development projects and has saved countless hours during the design and construction phase in comparison to previous design methodology.