Ground Mounted Solar Panels: A Homeowner's Guide
Do you consider installing a home solar system in 2025 but your rooftop is not good for solar? Don’t worry! Ground mounted solar panels are the best alternative for you. Not every roof is suitable for solar installation. Rooftop solar is not a good option if your roof is too sloppy, only has north-side space, or is not made of good quality material. This system can be a suitable substitute if your yard is large and exposed to the sun.
In this article, we will explain how ground mounted PV is different from rooftop systems and why it is a good option for a homeowner in certain circumstances.
What is a ground-mounted solar panel system?
As the name suggests, a ground-mounted solar power system consists of solar panels installed on your home’s ground, yard, or garage rather than on your roof. Backyard solar panels, free-standing solar panels, and ground-mount PV systems are other names for ground-mounted solar panels.
The height of the panels can be a few inches to several feet above ground, depending on the mounting system used. This setup provides flexibility for adequate sun exposure, allowing you to keep some temperature-sensitive devices like solar batteries and string inverters in your garage.
While rooftop systems are usually limited to 60-cell panels, which are smaller and lighter, ground-mounted installations allow you to have solar panels of any size, including “commercial” modules with 72 cells (or 144 half-cells) or more. Also, ground-mount solar systems can be installed in an open area with adequate sun exposure; however, they typically need at least 350 square feet space for installation.
What are the different types of ground-mount solar installations?
There are two basic typees:
Standard Ground Mount Solar
The most popular and affordable option for a ground install is the standard ground-mount system. Standard or traditional systems use several small anchors to support a racking table for the solar panels. The type of anchor you use will depend on your ground conditions and can include concrete piers (the most common type), driven piers, helical piles, and concrete ballasts. Although these systems usually keep the solar array in a fixed position, due to solar technological advancement, manual adjustment options have introduced among homeowners to optimize orientation seasonally for maximum energy production.
Pole Mount Solar System
Digging a single, deep hole in the ground is necessary for installing a pole-mount solar system. It will support a large pole, on which your rails and solar panels will be mounted. Pole-mount systems provide more ground clearance, which helps avoid barriers like foliage or snow. Another benefit of pole mounting is that it allows users to add a single- or dual-axis tracking system that tracks the sun’s movement during the day to generate more electricity. However, since the system is more expensive per watt than standard ground mount systems, making them a better choice for those looking for high efficiency over cost savings.
What are the pros and cons of ground-mounted solar panels?
If you’re considering installing ground-mounted solar panels, here are a few things to think about:
Pros
- You can position these systems to receive the maximum sunlight while avoiding shadows cast by nearby obstructions and can boost solar energy output.
- You may enhance energy capture by adjusting the solar panel orientation seasonally or even daily to follow the sun with adjustable brackets.
- Access at ground level makes cleaning, inspection, and maintenance easier, guaranteeing peak performance and possibly cutting expenses over time.
- If your energy demand increases, you can easily expand your ground-mounted system. Upgrading a rooftop system is typically more complicated than adding panels to an existing ground array.
- Any solar system’s wiring has the risk of catching fire, but a ground-mounted installation keeps such hazards away from your house. These systems further reduce potential risks by using independent electrical grounding.
- You can use your ground-mounted solar array for dual purposes. It can shade patios and cars by acting as a canopy or carport. Additionally, you can also make it a spot for charging your EV.
Cons
- Ground-mounted solar systems require huge space which is one of their main drawbacks. This makes them unsuitable for urban environments or houses with limited acreage.
- Installing solar on the ground on your land may require special permits due to local zoning rules. Depending on the area, approval times may vary, from a few days to many months.
- Unlike roof installations that connect straight to existing rafters, ground mounts require a newly constructed structure. Compared to solar systems mounted on roofs, this results in greater upfront expenses.
- To connect the panels to your house, ground-mounted systems need longer wiring. Also, as squirrels and other wildlife can damage these extra wires, so it requires extra measurements.
Ground-Mounted Solar VS. Rooftop Solar Panel
Ground-mounted solar panel systems are a good option, but rooftop solar panels are usually more popular. The type of system you choose will depend on your land and roof, and your financial condition. Rooftop solar panels are typically the best option if your roof is solar-capable and has enough space for solar panels according to your energy needs. Use ground-mounted panels if you have adequate open space and require a very large system that won’t fit on your roof.
Are ground-mounted solar panels right for my home?
Ground-mounted panels may be a better option for you if your home utilizes a lot of energy, especially if you have a lot of open space on your property, which will allow you to install more solar panels. By installing a larger system, you will be able to generate more power to meet all of your energy needs. For some solar system designs, such as off-grid installations, ground mounts are a good option. However, installing solar panels on the ground may leave little to no space in your backyard. Rooftop panels might be a better choice if you want to utilize your yard space for your personal use.
In conclusion, choosing a ground-mounted solar panel system depends on your requirements. If your energy demand is high and your roof type is not good for solar, this system is the best option. Moreover, you can talk to a trusted solar installer near you like SolarSME to decide whether mounted solar panels are best for you.
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