What Are the Advantages of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?

Ground-mounted solar panels offer a range of impressive benefits, including long-term cost savings, improved energy production, and easy maintenance. However, this type of solar array is not necessarily the right choice for every property.

One of the most important decisions you’ll make regarding your new solar system is where your panels are installed. While most property owners opt for rooftop solar systems, a ground-mount system may be a better fit for your home or business.

We’ll shed some light on ground-mounted solar panels by discussing their advantages, applications, and potential drawbacks.

What Are The Pros Of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?

Ground-mount solar systems offer a wide range of benefits, such as better energy production, easy maintenance, and long-term cost savings.

Better energy production

Typically, ground-mounted systems have the potential for greater energy production as solar trackers can be installed so the panels follow the angle of the sun. This allows them to capture the maximum amount of direct light. Even without a solar tracking system, ground-mounted panels usually produce more energy than rooftop systems.

Easier to maintain

In general, solar panels don’t require much maintenance. However, they do need to be cleaned from time to time if you want to extend their lifespan and maintain their efficiency. Having your solar panels on the ground makes it very easy to clean and inspect them on a regular basis.

Lower temperatures

Unlike rooftop panels, ground-mount solar panels don’t receive as much heat as rooftop placements. Ground-mounted solar panels are kept cool by wind and shade of surrounding buildings. These cooler temperatures also allow for better efficiency

Higher lifetime savings

Because ground-mount solar is easier to look after, you will spend less money on maintenance. The higher efficiency levels will also provide lower energy bills, making ground-mounted solar a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Do Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Have Any Disadvantages?

Unfortunately, there are a few potential drawbacks associated with ground-mounted panels, including the need for ample ground space, the environmental impact, and higher upfront costs.

Require ground space

If you want to invest in a ground-mounted system, you’ll need a decent amount of ground space on your property. This ground space could always be used for something else, such as a pool, a garden shed, agricultural land, etc. Roof space is not usually used for anything other than solar panels which is why many property owners prefer roof-mounted solar panels.

Environmental impact

Tree shade could impact the energy production of your ground-mounted panels. So, in many instances, any surrounding trees and bushes are removed. Some may view this as invasive and harming the environment. But if you already have a vegetation-free space on your property, you won’t have to face this dilemma.

Higher upfront costs

While ground-mounted solar systems offer long-term cost savings, the upfront costs are usually quite high. The higher costs are mostly because of the extra mounting hardware that needs to be created and installed. This requires extra materials as well as additional labour.

What Other Solar Panel Placements Are There?

When installing solar panels, you should always consider the various placement options available. In addition to ground-mounted panels, your options include rooftop solar panels, pole-mounted solar systems, and carport panels.

Rooftop solar panels

Rooftop panels are the most popular type of solar placement. These systems use ‘unused’ space and have relatively high-efficiency rates. Most homeowners prefer rooftop solar arrays for their sleek look and the fact that they are mounted on top of an existing structure. Rooftop installations also require fewer electrical connections than ground mounts.

Pole-mounted solar panels

Pole-mounted systems consist of solar panels placed on top of a pole mount. While this still requires significant ground space, the panels are elevated off the ground to help capture sunlight. In smaller systems, the panel is sometimes placed on the side of the pole instead of on top of it.

Carport solar panels

Carport solar panels work similarly to rooftop panels. While they don’t offer as much space as a typical rooftop, carport installations are a great way to expand existing solar systems and produce more energy.

Rooftop Solar Panels vs Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: Which is the Better Option?

With both options offering their own unique set of pros and cons, it can be tricky to choose between a rooftop solar system and a ground-mounted system. Some of the factors you should take into consideration include:

• Your roof space and type of roof.
• The amount of ground space you have.
• If the ground on your property gets enough direct sunlight.
• Your budget for the upfront cost.
• Whether or not you plan to do any renovations in the future.

A ground-mounted system may be ideal if you have a large amount of open space on your property and there aren’t many tall, adjacent buildings causing significant shade. Remember that you’ll also need a slightly higher budget than you would for installing rooftop solar panels.

FAQs

What are ground-mounted solar panels?

Ground-mounted solar panels, also referred to as ‘ground-mount’ solar panels, are free-standing panels that are mounted on the ground. The panels are typically placed on top of a sturdy metal frame at a 30-degree angle to absorb the maximum amount of sunlight.

How do ground-mounted solar panels work?

The solar panels used for ground mounts are the same as those used for rooftop systems. However, they are installed slightly differently. Ground-mounted systems require a support structure for the mounting to be placed on. This structure is often customised to meet a property’s specific needs and heights may range from a few centimetres to a couple of metres.

What type of properties are ground-mounted solar panels best suited for?

Ground-mounted solar panels are most commonly found on solar farms, where hundreds of solar panels are installed alongside each other to produce renewable energy for the local community or specific project. However, both residential and commercial properties can install ground-mounted solar panels if there is enough open space.

Can I install my own ground-mounted solar system?

While it is legal for property owners in the UK to install their own solar panels, this job is better left to solar panel experts. Not only could you end up injuring yourself, but you run the risk of damaging the panels and the mounting hardware if you’re not entirely sure what you’re doing.

Is the cost of solar panels worth it?

Yes, solar panels are worth it! Don’t let the high cost of solar installation put you off investing in a greener future. Over time, you will break even thanks to reduced electricity bills. Additionally, you can sell any excess energy back to the national grid through the SEG scheme.

Conclusion

There are plenty of benefits that come with ground-mounted solar panels. However, they aren’t the best solution for every property. Consider all your options carefully and seek professional advice if you’re unsure what type of solar panel system would best suit your needs.

Whether you’re interested in rooftop solar panels or a ground-mounted solar system, our expert team at Eco Happy can carry out the installation process. Over the years, we have helped hundreds of property owners experience all the benefits that come with investing in solar power. If you’re interested in our professional services or have any questions, feel free to contact us today.