For a 100 MW utility-scale solar project, one of the first questions EPC contractors ask is:

How many solar installation robots are actually needed?

The answer depends on the project size, module type, installation schedule, and robot productivity.

However, a simple capacity calculation can provide a useful starting point.

Start with the Number of Solar Modules

A 100 MW solar farm may require approximately 160,000–200,000 modules, depending on the module power rating.

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For example, with 550 W modules:

100 MW ÷ 0.55 MW per 1,000 modules ≈ 182,000 modules

The actual number will vary based on the selected module.

Then Consider Robot Productivity

Relu Robotics Bison is designed for utility-scale PV module installation and can achieve approximately 80–95 modules per hour under suitable site conditions.

Using 85 modules/hour as an example, with a typical 10-hour working day:

85 × 10 = 850 modules/day

At this rate, one robot could theoretically install a significant number of modules during a project.

For a 100 MW project with approximately 182,000 modules, the required number of robots can then be estimated based on the target installation period

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Example: Different Project Schedules

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*Illustrative estimates based on 182,000 modules, 85 modules/hour, and 10 operating hours/day. Actual requirements depend on site conditions, working hours, robot utilization, logistics, and installation workflow.

Why the Number Can Vary

Robot quantity is not determined by MW alone.

EPC contractors should also consider:

  • Module quantity and module size
  • Target construction schedule
  • Daily working hours
  • Site terrain and accessibility
  • Row spacing and ground clearance
  • Module loading and material logistics
  • Number of installation crews
  • Robot utilization and site efficiency

For example, a 100 MW project with a tight construction schedule may require more robots, while a project with a longer installation window may achieve the same output with fewer units.

The Better Approach: Calculate by Daily Output

Instead of asking only “How many robots do I need for 100 MW？

EPC teams should calculate:

Required Robots = Total Modules ÷ Target Installation Days ÷ Daily Output per Robot

This provides a more practical estimate for project planning and equipment deployment.

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Planning a 100 MW Solar Project?

Relu Robotics Bison is designed to support large-scale PV construction by automating repetitive module handling and placement while working alongside site operators.

For a project-specific robot quantity calculation, share your project capacity, module wattage, target installation period, and site conditions with the RELU team.