In the design of solar power plants, it is of great importance that the land is properly levelled and slopes are optimised. At this point, the “Cut/Fill” features offered by pvX come into play, allowing you to organise the topography of your project area in the most efficient way. In this article, we will discuss step by step how to determine Cut/Fill limits and perform excavation calculations using pvX.

1. Defining a Digital Elevation Model (DEM)
Before starting earthmoving operations, you need to define a digital elevation model (DEM) of your project area. The DEM is a detailed 3D representation of the land surface and this model is used to determine the locations for excavation and filling operations. pvX creates and analyses this model using elevation data.

2. Determining Cut/Fill Boundaries
a. Boundary Selection:
Firstly, you should determine the polygon/parcel boundaries where excavation operations will be carried out. These boundaries define the scope of cutting and filling operations on your land.

b. Entering the Slope Value:
Within the specified boundaries, a threshold slope value is entered to optimise the slopes of the land. For example, if the land is desired to have a slope of 5%, you can enter this value in the pvX interface and ensure that the operations are performed over this value.

3. Setting Excavation Options
pvX allows you to customise your operations by offering various earthmoving options:

Original Terrain: Confirms that the original terrain surface will be treated.
Cut/Fill Map Display: Creates a map showing where cut and fill operations will take place and how much material will be used.
Comparison Slope Analysis: Provides a slope analysis showing the difference between the original terrain and the specified threshold slope value.

pvX’s Cut/Fill features facilitate land levelling and slope optimisation for your solar power plant projects. By entering the correct boundaries and slope values, you can organise your land in the most efficient way and realise your projects faster and more economically. With advanced excavation calculation tools, pvX not only reduces costs but also allows you to manage the operations on the land in a more controlled and precise manner.