How to Prepare Remote Sites for Solar Development in Colorado

Colorado’s high solar potential and wide-open spaces make it an ideal location for utility-scale solar projects. But many of the most promising solar farm sites are in remote, hard-to-access areas—bringing a unique set of challenges to developers and contractors.

At Black Mountain Excavation, we specialize in preparing off-grid and rural sites for large-scale solar development. From clearing land to building access roads and utility trenching, here’s what you need to know before you break ground.

1. Assess Site Accessibility Early

Before anything else, determine how your crews and equipment will reach the site. Many solar developments are located far from paved roads or infrastructure, which means access planning is essential.

What to consider:

• Temporary vs. permanent road construction
• Hauling routes for heavy equipment
• Weather impacts (mud, snow, washouts)
• Permits for road use or modifications

We help developers build stable access roads that support heavy loads and remain functional throughout the construction phase.

2. Clear and Grade with Environmental Sensitivity

Remote solar sites often contain overgrown vegetation, boulders, or uneven terrain. These sites must be cleared and graded to allow for solar array installation, drainage management, and service access.

Best practices include:

• Selective clearing to minimize environmental impact
• Grading with erosion control in mind
• Coordinating with environmental engineers or wildlife agencies
  
  

Black Mountain Excavation uses GPS-guided equipment to minimize overwork and preserve the integrity of surrounding land.

3. Plan for Utility Trenching in Unstable Ground

Bringing power to and from the site means extensive utility trenching—sometimes through rocky, sandy, or shifting soils. If the site lacks existing infrastructure, conduit and cabling for AC, DC, and data must be routed over long distances.

Trenching tips:

• Account for soil type and frost line depth
• Space conduits to prevent interference
• Coordinate trenching with panel racking layout
  
  

We design trenching solutions that are code-compliant, efficient, and built for long-term performance in Colorado’s rugged conditions.

4. Secure Permits and Local Approvals

Remote doesn’t mean regulation-free. County-level permitting, environmental impact studies, and construction approvals still apply—and sometimes take longer due to less frequent review schedules.

Black Mountain Excavation can assist with pre-construction planning to ensure your project meets all permitting and inspection requirements.

5. Factor in Logistics and Timing

Working in remote areas means you can’t afford unnecessary trips or delays. Every delivery, labor hour, and material drop needs to be scheduled with precision.

We help with:

• Coordinating access for subcontractors and deliveries
• Staging equipment to reduce back-and-forth travel
• Timing excavation with panel delivery and install crews
  
  

Ready to Build Off the Grid?

Remote doesn’t have to mean risky. With Black Mountain Excavation as your site prep partner, you get the experience and equipment needed to develop remote solar farms efficiently and responsibly—anywhere in Colorado.

Contact us to start planning your next solar project today.