Geotechnical considerations for solar farm foundation design

Hugo Acosta-Martinez

Solar power provides a clean and cost-effective energy source and is key in the transition to clean energy. The construction of solar farms in Australia has increased significantly, including Western Australia, and is expected to continue in future. Renewable energy is preferred in terms of sustainability and energy security, especially for industrial and resources projects. Solar trackers are rising in popularity due to benefits in increased energy production, cost effectiveness and sustainability. Foundation geotechnical design for solar trackers generally involves large areas and thousands of foundation elements (mostly piles). Basic design methods generally focus on a simple approach centred on saturated soil mechanics. This technical seminar will discuss specific issues to be considered in the design of solar farm foundations, from site investigation aspects to the effects of extreme weather conditions and climate change, dealing with reactive soils, impacts of ULS loadings (wind and flooding) and soil-structure interaction aspects. Lessons learnt from the study of problematic projects will be shared.

About the speaker

Hugo Acosta-Martinez Technical Director, Geotechnical at BG&E Resources

Hugo Acosta-Martinez is a Technical Director – Geotechnical at BG&E Resources. He has more than 25 years of consulting experience, mainly in transport and resources infrastructure. He has been involved in numerous renewable energy projects involving solar and wind across Australia.

In his current role, Hugo provides technical leadership and independent verification on projects across the country. As a passionate advocate for inspiring the next generation of geotechnical engineers, Hugo is involved in mentoring young and emerging professionals, and has previously served as the National Chair of the Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS). With strong links to academia, Hugo is also a regular peer reviewer of leading geotechnical engineering journals and actively participates in forums that promote industry-academia collaboration.

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