Understanding Soil Capacity for Ground Mount Systems
A solar project’s success begins beneath the surface, in the soil. For ground-mount solar systems, the foundation’s stability is paramount to ensuring long-term safety, efficiency, and energy output. Yet, the importance of soil capacity, the ability of the ground to support the weight and wind forces exerted by the system, is often underestimated.
What is Soil Capacity and Why Does It Matter?
Soil capacity varies with factors like soil type, moisture levels, compaction, and the presence of underground structures. Without proper assessment, these variables can lead to serious challenges, including:
Disengagement: Low-bearing capacity soils may allow significant movement during high wind events, causing solar panels to disengage.
Structural Damage: Subsidence can result in sinking, cracking, or even collapse of the main structural components, particularly under stress during wind events.
What System is Best for Your Site?
Not all ground mount array frames are created equal, and site-specific conditions often determine which system is most suitable. While all systems are designed to support solar panel loads, selecting the right type of system can help minimise overall costs.
Before committing to a racking manufacturer, take the time to evaluate your site thoroughly. Knowing the type of system your site needs ensures more accurate costing and alignment with what will ultimately be installed. This proactive approach can save time, reduce budget overruns, and improve installation outcomes.
Partnering with the Right Geotechnical Engineers
Understanding soil is both a science and an art, and not all geotechnical reports provide the level of detail structural engineers require for accurate assessments. Collaborating with geotechnical engineers experienced in foundation solutions for solar installations is essential.
At Gamcorp, we work closely with geotechnical experts or provide detailed “Soil Test Methodology & Parameters” to ensure geotechnical investigations yield the necessary information. This step enables structural engineers to evaluate footing solutions and optimize designs for various array frame installation types.
Gamcorp's Expertise in Ground Mount Solar Systems
With over 300 successful certifications ranging from 1 MW to 355 MW projects across Australia and New Zealand, Gamcorp is a leader in ground mount stability. Our engineers collaborate with geotechnical professionals to analyse soil conditions and design custom foundations tailored to the unique needs of each project.
Additionally, we partner with leading PV array frame manufacturers, including Arctech, S-Rack, Sunlock, Clenergy, and more, to deliver structural assessments and certifications that meet the highest standards. Our expertise extends to wind load optimisation, fixed tilt, and tracker systems, ensuring your ground-mount solar installations are structurally sound and highly efficient.
Your Strong Foundation Starts Here
A robust foundation isn’t just important—it’s essential. By addressing soil capacity early and working with Gamcorp, you can transform potential challenges into strengths, ensuring the safety, stability, and performance of your solar projects.
For more details on our services, please review our Ground Mount Services Page for more information.
