Modular foundation for tower with expandable base

An apparatus configured to retain equipment in an elevated position, the apparatus comprising:

• a plurality of ballast holders spaced from each other;
• a central portion configured to support a tower;
• a plurality of connecting members, each connecting member configured to attach a ballast holder to the central portion, wherein a length of the plurality of connecting members is determined based upon a load capacity required to retain the tower in a substantially vertical position, wherein when the plurality of ballast holders is connected to the central portion, the central portion is elevated above the plurality of ballast holders, wherein different lengths of the connecting members expands and contracts a footprint of the foundation to match the foundation to a required maximum loading requirements;
• and
• a tower configured to be attached to and supported by the foundation when in the elevated position.

A method of raising equipment into an elevated position, the method comprising:

• determining a weight and elevation of the equipment;
• determining a size and length of a tower for raising the equipment to the elevation
• determining a maximum loading requirement for a foundation based upon the weight and elevation of the equipment and a configuration of the tower;
• determining a number of ballast holders and a weight of ballast to be placed into the number of ballast holders of a foundation;
• determining a length of a connecting member between each of the ballast holders and a central portion of the foundation;
• assembling the foundation with the number of ballast holders, the central portion and the connecting members;
• placing the ballast on the ballast holders;
• and
• raising and securing the tower to the central hub.