How Ground Screws Are Key To Enabling BESS Success in Challenging Terrains
RADIX Group
by Christian Alexander
In the march towards a sustainable energy future, Battery Energy Storage
Systems (BESS) are the hub of renewable integration, ensuring grid stability
and unlocking the full potential of wind & solar power. As demand for these
systems grows so does the challenge of finding suitable locations to site them.
Traditional concrete foundation methods often struggle when faced with uneven
terrain, soft soils, or environmentally sensitive areas, leaving promising
sites off the menu. This where ground screws show their value as a versatile,
efficient solution that is transforming the way BESS projects are deployed in
challenging terrains.
Overcoming Barriers with Ground Screws
For decades, energy infrastructure projects have been constrained by site
conditions. Rocky terrain, waterlogged fields, and slopes have rendered many
locations impractical for development due to the cost and complexity of
traditional foundations like concrete or driven piles. But with the advent of
ground screws, these limitations are no longer a barrier.
Ground screws are helical steel piles that are drilled directly into the
ground, providing robust, stable foundations without the need for excavation or
heavy machinery. This approach minimises site disturbance, making it an ideal
choice for regions with strict environmental regulations. In challenging soil
conditions—where traditional methods require extensive preparation or
reinforcement—ground screws excel, offering a faster, more adaptable
alternative.
Expanding the Geographic Reach of BESS
The flexibility of ground screws is enabling the deployment of BESS projects in
areas previously deemed unsuitable. From waterlogged fields in rural landscapes
to rocky highlands, these systems are opening opportunities to bring renewable
energy storage to regions with diverse and complex topographies.
RADIX has seen first-hand how ground screws make it possible to install
foundations on soft, uneven soils without the need for costly remediation. By
skipping the excavation and curing times associated with concrete, projects can
be completed faster, helping developers meet tight deadlines and deliver
critical energy storage capacity to the grid.
Environmental & Economic Advantages
The environmental benefits of ground screws extend beyond reduced site
disturbance. By eliminating the need for concrete, a material with a high
carbon footprint, ground screws help BESS developers reduce the overall
emissions of their projects. This of course aligns with the broader goals of
the renewable energy sector, ensuring that clean energy solutions don’t come at
the expense of the environment.
Economically, ground screws also offer significant cost savings. Faster
installation means reduced labour and equipment costs, while the ability to
adapt to various terrains minimises the need for expensive site preparation.
This makes BESS projects more viable in remote or challenging locations,
ultimately accelerating the transition to a renewable-powered future.
The RADIX Perspective
At RADIX, we believe that ground screws are more than just a foundation
solution—they’re enablers of innovation and progress in the renewable energy
space. By expanding the geographic reach of BESS deployment, ground screws are
helping to overcome some of the most significant barriers to clean energy
adoption. Whether it’s stabilising a solar array on rocky ground or supporting
a transformer in waterlogged terrain, our ground screw solutions are paving the
way for a more sustainable and resilient energy grid.
As the demand for renewable energy grows, so too will the need for innovative,
adaptable solutions to support its infrastructure. Ground screws represent a
critical piece of the puzzle, ensuring that no matter the terrain, clean energy
can thrive.
Contact RADIX today to learn how our ground screw solutions can support your
next BESS project.
-
CONTACT RADIX:
Telephone: +44 (0)1382 819 458
Email: sales@radixgroup.co.uk
Unit 1 Edison Place,
Dryburgh Industrial Estate,
Dundee, DD2 3QU
