Main Post

Simple Base

In many cases the Simple Base, detailed below, is sufficient.  In certain cases, concrete footings may be required, detailed in section 3.2 Commercial Grade Base.

Types I & II – Initial Steps

Dig a 2-3ft post hole and insert the 6x6 8ft post.  Refill with dirt while checking the angle of the post with a vertical level.  The post should lean slightly away from the direction of sunlight (Figure 3.1), but side to side the post should be kept as vertical as possible.  This is to account for gradual settling forward in the direction of sunlight, since the center of gravity of the solar panels sits slightly forward of the center of the post.

Cut four sections of 4x4 post, 24in length, angled 45deg on one end.  Drill a 3/4in through-hole on the longest face, 4in from the angled end.