Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: What You Need to Know

Ground-mounted solar panels are just like rooftop solar panels only they’re mounted on the ground with a specially constructed support structure. Ground-mounted systems can be a great alternative for people who want solar energy but are limited by roof space, shading, or materials, or for those living on large properties or farms. 

If you’re not sure whether to choose between ground-mounted or rooftop solar panels, this article will help. Read on to learn what you need to know about ground-mounted panels, including the different types, advantages and disadvantages, and whether a ground mounted system is a suitable option for you. 

Key takeaways:

• Ground-mounted solar panel systems are a great alternative for those who cannot install solar panels on their roof.
• Ground mounted solar panels have the additional benefit of being positioned in the optimum direction for maximum sunlight capture throughout the day. 
• Installing ground-mounted panels will cost more than rooftop solar installations, although in some cases a percentage of that additional cost will be offset by the additional energy generation. 
• If you have a large property and want to produce lots of solar energy, ground-mounted systems may be a good option for you, especially if your roof space is limited, shaded, or oriented in such a way to impede maximum sun exposure. 

What are ground-mounted solar panels?

Ground-mounted, or ground mount, solar panels are just like rooftop solar panels, only they're mounted on the ground using a special support structure instead of on your roof.

There are two categories of ground-mounted solar panel systems: standard or “fixed” mounts, and  tracking mounts. Tracking systems have the benefit of adjusting their position throughout the day to follow the path of the sun and, in doing so, generate more energy than a fixed array. Solar tracking can help boost solar energy production by up to 25% in ideal conditions. 

You can install ground-mounted solar panels anywhere with good exposure to the sun, as long as you have enough space to fit the desired number of panels. Ground-mounted solar panels are typically attached to a racking system that’s positioned anywhere between a few inches to several feet above the ground. A concrete foundation is generally used to secure the system in place. 

Ground-mounted solar installations work with virtually any sized solar panel, including large commercial modules of 72 cells or more. This is different to rooftop systems, which are usually limited to the more lightweight 60-cell solar panels. 

Sometimes you’ll hear people referring to ground-mounted solar panels as backyard solar arrays, free-standing solar panels, solar shade structures, or ground-mount PV systems.

Similar Reading: How Does Solar Power Work?

Types of ground-mounted solar panels

Ground mount solar racking systems come in several types, each suited to different site conditions and project needs. Here are the main types:

1. Fixed-Tilt Racking Systems: These are the most straightforward and cost-effective. Panels are mounted at a fixed angle, usually aligned to the latitude of the location to optimize sun exposure. They don’t adjust throughout the year, so their efficiency remains constant but can be less optimal compared to adjustable systems.
2. Adjustable Tilt Racking Systems: These systems allow you to manually or automatically adjust the angle of the solar panels to optimize performance for different seasons or times of the year. Manual adjustments involve physically changing the angle, while automatic systems use motors and sensors to adjust the tilt.
3. Tracking Systems: These systems automatically adjust the position of the solar panels to follow the sun’s path throughout the day. They can be:
   • Single-Axis Trackers: Rotate the panels on one axis (typically north-south), allowing them to follow the sun from east to west.
   • Dual-Axis Trackers: Rotate the panels on two axes (both north-south and east-west), which allows them to follow the sun more precisely throughout the day and year, maximizing energy capture.
4. Pole Mounts: Panels are mounted on a single pole driven into the ground. This type of system can be fixed or include a single-axis tracking mechanism. It’s often used for smaller installations or where space is limited.
5. Hybrid Systems: Combine features from different types of racking systems to optimize performance based on specific site conditions and energy goals. For example, a fixed-tilt system might be combined with tracking features to balance cost and performance.

Each type of system has its own advantages and is chosen based on factors like the local climate, soil conditions, available space, and budget.

Pros and cons of different ground-mounted solar panel arrays

The pro of fixed, non-tracking systems are::

• They’re usually less costly than tracking systems
• Installation and maintenance is easier since the racking is generally simpler and located closer to the ground 
• The system can double as a shaded parking or entertainment area. Solar carports, for example, are very popular in Arizona where additional shade is always welcome.

The cons of fixed, non-tracking systems are: 

• Being fixed at a certain angle can limit the amount of sunlight they absorb compared to tracking systems
• They are more expensive than roof-mounted systems since a structure needs to be constructed to support them
• Being closer to the ground poses a higher risk of damage due to wildlife. 

Pros and cons of tracking solar panel systems

The pros of installing a tracking system are: 

• Some tracking systems, specifically pole-mounted systems are higher up, which allows them to bypass shady obstructions, such as foliage.  
• Tracking systems can maximize exposure and generate more energy. 
• Systems can be smaller since fewer panels will typically produce the same amount of energy.  

The cons of installing a tracking system are: 

• They cost more than standard mounts due to more complex installation 
• They may require more maintenance since there are motors, gears, and sensors incorporated into the design
• In some cases, the complexity and cost of installing them may not be worth the added energy production and cost savings that the tracking capabilities provide. 

Advantages of ground-mounted solar panels

Ground-mounted solar panels have certain advantages that can make them a great option in situations where a roof is too small, oriented the wrong way, or shaded by foliage. Depending on the type and where they’re mounted, ground-mount solar systems have the potential to capture more sunlight than rooftop panels and generate more energy. If you have plenty of space on your property, you might also be able to install more ground-mounted solar panels than your roof will accommodate.  

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of ground-mounted solar panels. 

Bypasses roof issues

Firstly, ground-mounted solar panels are an excellent option for people who are unable to install solar panels on their roof. There are various reasons why rooftop solar panels might not work for you: 

• Your roof is shaded.
• Your roof has obstructions, such as a chimney or skylight. 
• Your roof is too sloped.
• Your roof is not structurally sound enough to hold the weight of solar panels.
• Your roof’s orientation means solar panels are unlikely to capture enough sunlight. 

If your roof ticks any of these boxes, it doesn’t mean you can’t go solar. If you have a sun-drenched backyard or property, you can always install ground-mounted solar panels and soak up that solar energy. 

Similar Reading: 4 Key Reasons to Prioritize Quality Roofing for Solar Installations

Maximized energy production

Another advantage of ground-mounted solar panels is they offer more control over orientation and angle. With rooftop solar panels, the efficiency of your solar system is directly related to your roof’s characteristics. 

If your roof isn’t at the right angle, doesn’t face south or south-west, or has obstructions like chimneys or skylights, your solar panels won’t generate electricity at maximum output. That’s not to say that solar panels aren’t worth it in those situations, it simply means they’ll be generating less electricity than they could. Depending on your energy usage, solar panels not placed in the ideal position may still generate more than enough electricity for your home. A reputable solar installer will be able to model various options, both rooftop and ground mount, and provide a clear ROI analysis for both. 

That said, ground-mounted systems offer the added benefit of having more control over the direction and angle of the solar panel array. Unlike a slanted roof, solar panels on the ground can be positioned in the ideal orientation for maximum energy production. In the Northern Hemisphere, the best direction for solar panels is south-facing. This allows solar panels to capture more sunlight throughout the day, generate more solar energy, and save you more money. 

Ground mounted solar panels also tend to be more efficient than rooftop solar panels as they allow more air circulation underneath, which helps them stay cool. Because a ground mount structure is constructed specifically to support your solar array, you have more freedom to build a larger array than your roof would otherwise be able to accommodate. This means more solar electricity than your roof would otherwise allow. . 

See More: 9 Ways to Improve Solar Panel Efficiency and Output

Easier access for maintenance 

The fact that ground-mounted solar panels are installed on the ground instead of on the roof means they’re easier to access for maintenance and repairs. While we don’t recommend you maintain or inspect your solar panels yourself, it simply means it’s easier for the professionals to access and check the components of your system. 

Install more panels

Depending on the size of your property, you may be able to install more ground-mounted solar panels than you could on your roof. As long as your ground area is free from obstructions that can shade the panels, such as trees, you can install as many solar panels as you need. 

Similar Reading: How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?

Disadvantages of ground-mounted solar panels

Ground-mounted solar systems have many advantages, but they’re not suitable for everyone. They take up more space, are much more costly than rooftop rooftop solar arrays, and since they’re so close to the ground, the potential for damage is somewhat higher.  

Let’s take a look at the disadvantages of ground-mounted solar panels.

They require extra space

Unlike rooftop solar systems, which make use of a space that is already constructed and - apart from keeping the weather out - is largely unused, ground-mounted solar panels require the construction of a dedicated support structure and room to accommodate it. 20 to 25 solar panels generally require a space of at least 360 square feet. For some people, this is no problem, but depending on the size of your property it may not be feasible. 

You do have the option to choose pole-mounted solar systems, which can take up less space by elevating the panels, however again, this option is not for everyone as it requires sturdy ground and soil, and is generally much more expensive.  

Additional permitting

Depending on where you live, ground-mounted panels may require additional permitting or be limited by zoning and setback rules. This is usually because certain properties don’t have the necessary space from property lines to allow a solar array to be installed. The need for additional permitting or to get around these rules can make installing ground-mounted solar panels more difficult and time-consuming.

More potential for damage

One disadvantage of ground-mounted solar panels is that they can be more susceptible to damage. While your roof is far off the ground and safe from most wildlife and hazards, ground mounted systems can be more exposed to dust and debris, kids, and wandering wildlife that can chew on exposed wires and cause damage to the panels or wiring. That said, a reputable solar company will work with you to protect your solar panels from nearby wildlife and birds that can cause damage. 

See More: Why Bird Proofing Your Solar Panels is Essential for Long-Term Performance

More expensive than rooftop solar panels

One of the main disadvantages of ground-mounted solar energy systems is that they’re simply more expensive than rooftop systems. This is mostly because ground mount systems require additional installation materials, such as a concrete foundation and dedicated support structures, as well as associated labor expenses. 

The costs associated with building a dedicated support structure, permitting it, and then digging trenches to run electrical lines will add up fast. In most instances, customers opt to install panels on their roof, which is much more economical. If you want to install additional features, such as solar tracking, this drives the cost even higher. 

A good solar installer will be able to consult with you to determine whether the additional costs of a ground-mounted system are worth it for the additional energy production and potential for additional cost savings

Ground-mounted vs rooftop solar panels: which is right for you?

Ground-mounted solar systems have numerous benefits that make them a reasonable alternative for some property owners, however for most people, rooftop solar panels make the most  sense. If your roof is suitable for solar panels and can fit enough panels to meet your energy goals, we’ll usually recommend installing rooftop solar rather than incur the additional expense and complexity of building a dedicated solar support structure.  

On the other hand, if you have abundant space on your property, or if your roof is shaded, structurally weak, or too small, or maybe you’re just looking for a nice shaded carport, then ground-mounted systems may be an ideal option. 

Summary: Ground-mounted solar panels

Ground-mounted solar panel systems have many advantages over rooftop solar systems, but they’re not suitable for everyone. They can be more costly than rooftop systems, require more space, and be more susceptible to damage. However, they can also produce extra solar energy and double as shaded parking or a recreational area.

To determine which solar option is most suitable for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Sun Valley Solar Solutions. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation that includes assessing your property, energy usage, and eligibility for local and federal incentives and rebates. We’ll talk you through your options and help you understand which type of solar panel system offers you the most benefits in terms of energy production and cost savings. 

If you’re ready to talk solar, contact our team now for a free quote.