Kieffer Funk Solar

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This project required the development of a challenging site characterized by steep slopes and karst geology. The design focused on maintaining site stability, managing stormwater, and minimizing environmental impacts through practical, coordinated solutions. Infiltration berms were incorporated throughout the site to manage runoff from steep slopes, providing effective stormwater control in accordance with regulatory guidance. Subsurface conditions included several sinkholes typical of karst terrain. These features were mitigated using inverted filter systems to stabilize and bridge the underlying voids to prevent future settlement issues.

For the access road, geotechnical recommendations called for 14 to 16 inches of stone to support construction equipment and emergency vehicles. A cellular confinement system was evaluated and implemented as an alternative, allowing the stone section to be reduced to 8 inches, while maintaining the required load-bearing capacity. The system also functioned as a pervious surface, eliminating the need for additional stormwater management infrastructure for the roadway.

The team coordinated closely with the Washington County Soil Conservation District to develop a phased construction approach that minimized disturbance and controlled sediment runoff. No sediment or erosion issues were observed during construction.

Client Name: Standard Solar, Inc.

Size: 17.25 MW(dc) – 11.80 MW(ac)

Project Type: CPCN – Utility Scale Solar

Completion Date: May 2024