As the demand for utility-scale solar projects accelerates, optimizing site grading and racking pile design is critical to improving efficiency, reducing costs, and maximizing project feasibility. Traditional civil grading methods often lead to excessive earthwork volumes, impacting installation timelines, tracker alignment, and ultimately, project profitability.

This webinar explores how automated civil grading software—leveraging advanced optimization algorithms like Weighted Regression, Dynamic Programming, and Simulated Annealing—is reshaping solar site development. By integrating data-driven earthwork estimation with pile design considerations, engineers and developers can optimize grading requirements, cut costs, and provide optionality in design.

Key takeaways include:

• How automated earthwork estimation optimizes grading and minimizes cut/fill.

• The role of tracker height, pile reveal variations, and terrain-following algorithms in grading design.

• How applied algorithms accelerate design timelines, improving efficiency for engineers and EPCs.

• Case studies demonstrating real-world applications and cost savings from two trial sites.

By integrating grading automation with pile design, solar designers and developers can unlock smarter, faster, and more cost-effective site development strategies and further support the effective installation and operation of PV racking systems on complicated site terrains.