Building solar power
The construction of a solar power project is relatively straightforward: the solar power plant does not need heavy foundations and the structures do not stand high. In addition, construction requires little special transport.
The characteristics of the soil in the area have a direct influence on how the construction is carried out. Depending on the type of foundation and the area, the ground may need to be levelled or otherwise modified before construction, but the foundation of panel racks does not always require major ground work.
The installation of the racks, panels and inverters is a fairly straightforward and mechanical work, which does not require specialised machinery, such as the large cranes used to assemble wind turbines. The construction phase of a solar power plant can have a significant local employment impact as it often uses local skills.
The construction phase is followed by testing, prior to formal commissioning. Monitoring, optimisation and control systems are an essential part of an industrial-scale solar power plant. After construction, traffic in the area will be reduced to almost zero. During the production phase, the plant will require maintenance and servicing, although this is relatively minimal.