Faster, Stronger, and More Cost-Effective: Why FIRST BASE Solar Structures Are Gaining Ground
As a solar installer, you aim to work quickly and efficiently without compromising on quality or sustainability. FIRST BASE Ground Screws offers a fitting solution with robust ground screws and mounting structures. In this expert blog, Danny van den Elzen, Technical Director at FIRST BASE, explains why more and more companies are switching to this foundation method.
The strength of ground screws
In ground-mounted solar setups, tensile loads are often the decisive factor. The significant wind loads on the structure require a solid anchoring. Ground screws provide the ideal solution. They’re lightweight, easy to install, offer high pull-out resistance, and are an excellent alternative to concrete foundations.
To illustrate: If a tensile force of 2,000 kg (~20 kN) is required at a single point, a concrete foundation weighing 2,000 kg is typically needed. A ground screw can handle the same load with a weight of only 10 kg. This leads to a drastic reduction in logistics, making transport and installation far more efficient. No curing time and less waste mean a faster and more sustainable build.
Versatile support structures
Solar support structures are becoming increasingly multifunctional. There are more designs that not only generate electricity but also serve other purposes. Solar carports, for example, generate power and protect against the elements. In agriculture, solar frames shield crops while producing energy. Even along highways, unused green strips are now used for solar energy.
Our support structures are ideal for projects starting from 100 kWp. What sets our systems apart? Speed, convenience, and flexibility. Even on sloped or uneven terrain like embankments or dikes, our systems offer effective solutions. Thanks to their modular design, installers can place them independently or outsource to our specialised partners.
Guaranteed quality and reliability
A solid foundation starts with solid preparation. FIRST BASE conducts geotechnical analyses to deliver the best solution for each project. Our production complies with EN-1090-2, resulting in certified and reliable products. All products bear the CE and UKCA marks and meet EU and UK standards, providing installers with a dependable, certified foundation system.
From plan to execution
We conduct on-site load tests using our FIRST BASE TP60 Pulltest Kit. This wireless tool digitally records both load capacity and displacement, enabling us to deliver comprehensive foundation reports including settlement graphs and capacity data. These initial insights are key to fine-tuning the structural calculations.
Our compact installation machines allow access to hard-to-reach locations. Where traditional piling rigs can’t operate, we offer a fast, cost-effective alternative with low startup costs. Installers immediately notice the benefits: a complete and highly adaptable system.
Meet us at Solar & Storage Live in Birmingham
Want to learn more? Visit FIRST BASE at Solar & Storage Live in Birmingham or fill out our Solar Configurator for a tailor-made offer.
