GIS for Solar Projects: In-House vs. Outsource
Utility-scale solar projects involve hundreds of acres and millions of dollars in capital investment. Finding the right location for a project is essential, but physically inspecting every square foot within an area of interest (AOI) isn’t feasible. That’s why solar project developers use GIS (geographic information systems) to efficiently understand topography, landowner density, existing infrastructure, and other important details.
Some renewable companies possess adequate in-house GIS expertise, while others seek to partner with a service provider like our team at New Era Land Services. Which approach is best for your organization? Let’s take a closer look.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Keeping GIS in-house offers the greatest level of control for a solar project developer and could, in the long run, yield a strategic advantage in the market. That said, building an in-house GIS department from the ground up represents a real opportunity cost that must be carefully evaluated. After considering the upfront and ongoing costs to build a GIS function, many energy companies choose to buy instead of build.
Outsourcing GIS work to a company like New Era Land Services can provide multiple benefits:
Immediate Access to GIS Processes & Systems: Creating an efficient and useful GIS workflow is more than acquiring the right software and hiring the right analysts. Establishing a scalable process that prioritizes data reliability and actionable insights is key. Process building requires considerable trial and error, which takes time and diverts attention from other priorities. By contrast, renewable energy companies that hire New Era Land Services enjoy immediate access to our GIS workflow and data templates for wetlands, substations, transmission lines, wind turbines, and other features in the Midwest.
Advanced Visualization Capabilities: GIS mapping is a data-driven endeavor. Making sense of the data requires modern visualization tools and skilled technicians. At New Era Land Services, we utilize multiple technologies to bring clients’ data to life. The following example illustrates our ability to provide client-facing dashboards that go beyond basic maps.
Potential Cost Savings: There’s a tangible cost of outsourcing GIS work to a third-party provider. But, in many cases, this expense could deliver a cost savings compared to hiring GIS analysts, acquiring software licenses, and providing ongoing technical support. At New Era Land Services, we’re committed to being stewards of clients’ resources and continually strive to deliver value that exceeds our invoice amounts.
Comprehensive Land Support: GIS is important for solar, but it’s not the whole story. There are many other land-related aspects—landowner outreach and engagement, land lease or purchase, courthouse and online research, and contract negotiation are examples. Outsourcing your GIS work to a professional land services company opens the door to other value-added services.
Looking for a Trusted Partner for GIS?
Contact us to discuss our GIS capabilities for solar energy projects. We look forward to partnering with your organization to advance renewable energy in the United States.