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Seismic activity is a growing concern for solar projects in regions like California, the Pacific Northwest, Utah, Nevada, and even New Jersey. Ground movement can be the deciding factor between a system that passes inspection—or one that fails. At Pure Power Engineering, seismic design is a core part of every structural analysis. Whether it’s a rooftop, ground mount, or carport, we engineer systems that resist uplift, sway, and lateral forces—so your project stands strong when the ground shifts. 🎥 Watch this video to learn: ✔️ Why seismic risk is critical for solar development ✔️ Key factors such as seismic design category, soil conditions, and structure type ✔️ How the right engineering approach avoids rework, delays, and failed inspections 👉 Building in a seismic zone? Let’s talk about how Pure Power can help you design with strength, compliance, and confidence.
Transcription:
When most people think about designing a solar system, the first factor that comes to mind is sun hours. But in certain regions, there’s another force that can determine whether your system succeeds or fails: seismic activity.
From California to the Pacific Northwest—and across parts of Utah, Nevada, and even New Jersey—seismic risk is a real and growing consideration for solar development. Whether you’re designing a rooftop array, a ground mount system, or a large carport, your structure must be engineered to withstand movement.
At Pure Power Engineering, we treat seismic design as a core part of structural analysis, not an afterthought. Because when the ground moves, you want your solar array to stay put.
Why Seismic Design Matters
During an earthquake, lateral ground motion places unexpected stress on structural components. Foundations can rock or lift, and modules may even dislodge. Without the right anchoring and load path design, your system is vulnerable.
Seismic design is governed by several key factors:
1. Seismic Design Category (SDC)
This rating is based on geography, soil type, and building type. It tells us how intense the expected ground motion is. Higher categories require more stringent design requirements.
2. Soil Conditions
Soft soils amplify shaking, while hard rock helps dampen it. Geotechnical reports are essential for determining how your system will respond.
3. Structure Type
Each solar structure responds differently to seismic activity:
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Rooftops: Load transfer into the building must be carefully evaluated.
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Carports: Designs must resist sway and overturning.
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Ground Mounts: Foundations must be embedded deep enough to handle uplift and lateral force.
4. Component Attachments
Clamps, bolts, and rails must all be rated for seismic load. If they’re not, they can fail. That’s why we work closely with manufacturers to verify every part of a racking system.
What Happens If Seismic Loads Are Ignored?
We’ve seen the consequences firsthand:
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Designs rejected by AHJs
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Racking systems failing inspection
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Rework required when rooftop loads were underestimated
Each delay costs time and money—but all of these issues are avoidable with the right engineering approach.
Pure Power’s Approach
At Pure Power Engineering, we integrate seismic analysis into every structural design for high-risk regions. Our approach ensures:
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Proper bracing and anchoring
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Carport columns designed for lateral forces
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Ground mount embedment depths that are code compliant
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Module hardware approved for seismic retention
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AHJ requirements met on the first submittal
Seismic events are unpredictable—but your structural design doesn’t have to be. With the right engineering team, you can build a solar project that performs safely, passes inspection, and stays standing even when the ground moves beneath it.
Building in a Seismic Zone?
If you’re planning a solar project in a seismic region, Pure Power Engineering can help you design with strength, compliance, and confidence.
Contact us today to start building with resilience.
