Helical piles as tension anchors
A 1.2 m helical pile with a 15 cm helix: the soil above the helix holds the pile down when the wind pulls at the panels. That is how we did it in our project.
Solar panel foundation
Solar panels in your garden or field, without concrete
For ground-mounted panels the biggest force is the wind, which tries to lift them. Helical piles and ground screws hold the frame down like an anchor, without concrete blocks or digging.
Why no concrete?
- No concrete blocks and no digging
- Works as an anchor against wind uplift
- Heads at the same height, even on a slope
- The grass keeps growing under the panels
- Fully removable, the ground stays clean
Which foundation?
Ground screws
For smaller set-ups or a frame in the garden, ground screws with a continuous thread are often enough.
Large solar parks
For larger parks we work with CPT soundings and the manufacturer's product data, in consultation with your engineer.
How it works
How it works on site
- Setting outWe set out the post positions to the frame plan.
- Screwing inOne helical pile or ground screw per post, by hand, tracked machine or excavator.
- To levelAll heads at the same height, so the frame fits straight away.
- Frame and panelsThe frame is mounted on the piles and the panels go on.
Frequently asked questions
Why no concrete blocks?
Blocks have to be heavy enough to resist the wind and are left behind as waste. A helical pile holds the frame through the soil above the helix, without concrete.
How deep does a pile go under solar panels?
That depends on the soil and the wind load. In our project a 1.2 m helical pile with a 15 cm helix was enough.
Can the piles be removed later?
Yes. They are simply unscrewed, with no concrete left in the ground.
Ready for your project?
Send us the dimensions or a plan. We reply within two working days.
Discuss your projectRead also: Garden office · Tiny house · Carport · Garden shed · Terrace & deck · Container units · Screw piles · Ground screws