Abstract: This invention is embodied in an energy yield optimization device that can be used to optimize energy yields for a utility-scale photovoltaic power plant. More specifically, this solution is directed to utility-scale photovoltaic power plants that have undulating (non-planar) topography. Because of the undulating topography, the rotating axles of the solar trackers will not necessarily be horizontal and would be expected to be different for each independent rotating axle in the field. The preferred solution claimed herein deploys a marching algorithm to find the preferred optimum solution.

Abstract: This invention is embodied in a cost-optimization device for the layout and construction of a utility-scale photovoltaic (“PV”) power plant. The optimization device employs a set of algorithms designed to find the most cost-effective solution under given conditions. The algorithms are written in computer machine readable code and are highly customizable for the specific tracker equipment requirements and owner/builder/maintainer specifications or preferences. The preferred optimization device comprises three principal stages (or “units”) of computing: (1) an objective-state unit, (2) an optimum-feasible unit, and (3) a grading unit. In the first stage, the objective-state unit cost-optimizes site grading by orienting a ruling line between a maximum and a minimum pile reveal length for each tracker in the project (the objective-state solution”). When compared to the existing site topography, the ruling line indicates cost-optimized cut and fill locations.