Your all-in-one provider for sustainable foundations
All-in-one foundation provider
Solar energy foundations
At StopDigging, we are changing how foundations are built for solar energy projects. We deliver integrated foundation solutions tailored for solar parks, Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS), and Power Conversion Systems (PCS). Our ground screws are engineered to support a wide range of solar energy applications, from small residential installations to expansive solar parks from 1MW to 50MW and beyond. Designed and developed in Sweden, our systems are reliable, durable, and eco-friendly—providing the perfect foundation for your energy projects.
A complete solution for renewable energy foundations
StopDigging is your one-stop shop for solar energy foundations. We provide comprehensive services to simplify your project, including:
Project feasibility analysis
On-site testing, custom foundation design, and risk assessment.
Technical advisory
Expert calculations and tailored solutions for your project.
Installation services
Complete installation of ground screws, racks, panel mounting, and DC cabling systems, including self-inspection, protective plates and other details.
Custom solutions
We provide customised solutions to meet unique project requirements.
We work closely with other suppliers to streamline the process, ensuring a seamless, efficient, and cost-effective project experience from start to finish.
Our solar solution products
Flexible options tailored for different types of projects and applications.
Our approach
We continually adapt our solution to meet your project requirements. On harder ground, we use shorter ground screws to provide a secure foundation without the need for extensive groundwork. In softer soil conditions, we offer longer screws with extension options to achieve stability. Our rack system is specifically designed for varying terrain without needing ground preparation. It can be adjusted for steep slopes to support solar panels’ stability and optimal positioning to maximise durability.
Solutions for solar projects of all sizes
Our solutions cater to a variety of projects:
Residential solar foundations
for up to 150 panels.
Mid-sized solar parks ranging
from 300kW to 1MW.
Large-scale solar farms of
1MW to 50MW and beyond.
Solar panel racks
Our solar panel racking systems are designed for flexibility, durability, and efficiency across all project scales and terrains. Available in aluminium or steel, they cater to diverse environmental and structural needs, supporting east-west and south-facing installations. Single-row and multi-panel configurations adapt seamlessly to space constraints while optimising solar energy capture, ensuring a stable and efficient foundation for sustainable energy projects.
BESS foundations
Our foundation solutions for BESS are engineered for scalability, durability, and adaptability. Designed to support container weights from 2.5 to 30 tons, we offer lightweight aluminium beams for smaller installations and robust, hot-dip galvanised steel beams for larger setups, ensuring stability even in challenging environments.
Features like steel cover frames and tailored groundwork services provide added functionality and protection. Custom solutions, including PCS and transformer oil tray integrations, ensure long-term reliability and low maintenance for energy storage infrastructure.
Designed and developed in Sweden
All of our ground screws are designed and developed in Sweden, embodying Swedish precision and upholding the highest standards of quality, durability, and environmental responsibility. This commitment ensures reliable performance in a wide range of environments. By selecting these specialised ground screws, we guarantee that each foundation our professional partners build is not only structurally sound but also seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings.
Why choose ground screws for solar energy projects
| Foundation challenges | Our ground system | Traditional methods |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility and quick installation | Flexible scheduling with the ability to install on short notice. | Often requires long lead times and depends on the availability of labour and materials. |
| Specialised treatment options | Ground screws with duplex coating for high acidity soils. | Limited or no options for specialised soil conditions requiring additional adaptations. |
| Superior load capacity | Provides better pressure and wind load performance than traditional solutions. | Often requires additional reinforcement to meet similar load demands. |
| Versatile installation capabilities | Installers can also handle tasks like battery parks, fences, and perimeter enclosures for solar parks. | Specialised teams are required for additional tasks, adding complexity and cost to projects. |
| Adaptability for uneven terrain | Ground screws are better suited for undulating or irregular ground. | Concrete or piling requires extensive groundwork and levelling. |
| Slope installation capability | Systems can be installed on slopes without the need for expensive grading. | Significant site preparation and levelling are required to enable slope installation. |
| Year-round installation | Can be installed throughout the year, except during extremely deep frost. | Limited by seasonal constraints, especially during winter or wet conditions. |
| Reusability | Designed with recyclability and reusability in mind. Components can be easily removed, preserving the site and leaving minimal environmental footprint. | Permanent installations that are difficult and costly to remove, with significant site disruption. |
| Strong warranties | Offers reliable warranties to ensure long-term performance and client peace of mind. | Often limited warranties with less comprehensive coverage. |
Case study
24/7 solar-powered irrigation: A sustainable solution for continuous farm operation
Background
Solar-powered solution – a natural and modern choice
StopDigging Central North Island in New Zealand collaborated with Smart Electrical Solutions (SES) on a significant solar installation project to reduce energy costs on a large dairy farm in New Zealand’s central region. Having partnered on similar projects and co-marketed at Central Districts Field Days, a prominent agricultural trade show, their familiarity and trust with SES facilitated a smooth project initiation. The farm’s rising electricity costs—combined with a high demand for irrigation due to the local soil and climate—made exploring a solar-powered solution a natural choice for long-term sustainability and cost-efficiency. The client sought an energy solution to lower costs and align with environmental values.
The challenge
Variable ground- and weather conditions
While the project’s goals were clear, the installation presented several logistical challenges. The solar array spanned over 100 metres, making precision critical to maintain alignment across the installation. The primary challenge was ensuring the rows remained straight and well-aligned despite variable ground conditions and weather. Additionally, the design of the racking foot allowed minimal tolerance, requiring meticulous placement of each ground screw to avoid alignment issues that would complicate panel installation. Overcoming these challenges was vital to ensuring the project’s success. Misalignment could impact panel installation efficiency and affect the system’s performance and durability.
The solution
A stable foundation achieving precise alignment
SES designed a solar-powered system capable of operating the farm’s irrigation system around the clock. Ground screws emerged as the ideal foundation for this project and were installed smoothly, adapting well to the sandy soil and retaining stability in wet conditions. We adjusted our techniques as we learned from initial installations, achieving a precise alignment for the 100-metre-long array. These adjustments ensured the racks remained perfectly straight, making panel attachment more accessible and efficient.
The result
Complete solar array operating efficiently
The project delivered exceptional results, fully meeting the client’s needs for a sustainable and cost-effective solution. The completed solar array operates efficiently, powering the farm’s irrigation system 24/7. Both the client and SES expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting the quality and efficiency of the installation.
Environmental impact
By choosing ground screws, the project minimised its environmental impact, preserving the surrounding soil and reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional foundations. The used materials are both recyclable and reusable, aligning with the client’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.
Conclusion
A reliable solution aligning with modern construction industry values
This project highlights the efficiency and sustainability of ground screws for large-scale solar installations. The approach met the client’s cost savings and environmental responsibility objectives, providing a reliable solution aligning with modern construction industry values.
Get in touch
Are you interested in a quote for your project with our ground screw solutions? Or would you like to work with us? Contact us here for quotes, partnership inquiries, and other questions about your project. We are here to help!
Commitment
to sustainable
foundations
Our solutions are designed with the environment in mind, minimising impact while maximising efficiency. By using ground screws and sustainable materials, we reduce soil disturbance, lower emissions, and adapt seamlessly to various terrains—including challenging sites like steep slopes and remote areas. This approach supports clean installations that respect and protect natural ecosystems, aligning with our commitment to sustainable development.
