GameChange Solar has announced the release of TopoSmart+, a project analysis software tool to minimize topography costs and support solar installations on uneven terrain.
The TopoSmart+ tool aims to help developers optimize costs related to leveling, steel poles and optimal tracker heights. The tool provides a detailed 3D modeled plan, generating detailed grade plans for configuration with the company’s Genius Tracker solar mounting system.
TopoSmart+ is compatible with both the straight tube and terrain following configurations of GameChange’s single-axis solar trackers. For developers interested in terrain tracking solutions, the company offers both moderate terrain tracking and extreme terrain tracking, which the company says allows up to a 1 degree change in the slope of the row tubes in each span from post to post.
GameChange said that while higher tube slope tolerances can reduce grading costs, it is also important for owners to address potential voltage mismatches, which the company said could lead to a 2% drop in power production.
The new software tool is designed to provide a balanced approach. It can minimize installed tracker costs for projects with challenging topography, while at the same time designing for relatively small changes in row tube slope, supporting greater power.
“Our goal with TopoSmart+ is to provide a powerful yet streamlined solution that reduces topographical costs while supporting project bankability,” said Anthony Assal, director of technical development. “By optimizing both grading and steel needs for specific terrain, we offer developers a highly efficient and cost-effective approach for even the toughest sites.”
GameChange has provided solar trackers for utility-scale and ground-based distributed solar projects around the world. It has delivered more than 37 GW of solar trackers and fixed tilt systems.
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