By now everybody knows solar energy is here to stay and homeowners nationwide are rushing to get their roofs set up with solar.
But what if that’s not you though?
Sure, you’re set on generating your solar energy from home but maybe your roof just can’t support solar panels.
This is where ground mount solar comes in. It’s an alternative to rooftop solar that still lets you produce solar energy–just from a different location on your property. All you really need is lots of space.
In this post, we will provide an overview of ground mounted solar panels, how they compare with rooftop panels and some pros and cons to keep in mind while you decide if this is the right choice for you.
First Off, What are Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?
A ground mounted solar system (also known as freestanding solar panels or backyard solar panels) consists of solar panels set up at ground level rather than on a rooftop.
They’re typically used in large farms or commercial spaces but they are still a viable option for homeowners with enough space to set them up in their backyards. So if installing panels on your roof won’t work for you for whatever reason, worry not! You still have options to generate your own solar energy right from home.
There are two types of ground mounted solar panels you can choose from:
- Standard ground mounted panels: these are the most popular and cost-effective and are made up of a metal frame that holds solar panels up at a fixed angle.
- Pole mounted solar panels: these are made up of one pole that supports multiple panels and lifts them higher than a standard ground mount. It’s also easier to add a tracking system to this type of solar system. Although it comes out to a higher price, it results in higher energy production which means more savings in the long term and a faster return on investment.
Keep in mind that in addition to space, your overall electricity consumption, system costs and soil type are key factors to consider when deciding whether ground-mounted panels will work for your home or not.
Are Ground-Mounted Systems Better than Rooftop Solar Panels?
It depends.
Sure, rooftop solar is the gold standard for homeowners interested in going solar but ground mount panels are sometimes a better choice for people whose roofs are not fit for solar.
For one, ground-mounted systems require more solar panels, provided you have ample ground space on your property. This allows you to generate more solar capacity and get more bang for your buck, unlike rooftop solar where you are limited by the available and usable space on your roof. This is especially useful for households with higher than average energy needs.
Secondly, some ground mounted systems are also able to move with the sun thanks to a tracking system that you can opt to add to your panels. Adding a tracking system to your panels can boost your panels’ energy production by 25-45%, depending on the type of tracker you use.
There are two tracking systems available: single axis (which follow the sun throughout the day) and dual axis (which follow the sun’s position based on seasonal changes). This a huge perk of ground mount given that rooftop panels’ sun exposure is slightly limited since they depend on the slope and position of your roof. Thanks to tracking systems however, your ground based panels can adjust their position to consistently receive maximum sunlight. Yes, this is an added cost but it can be recouped faster thanks to the added savings from the increased and more consistent energy production you would get.
What are the Pros and Cons of Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?
Rooftop solar is still a go-to option for homeowners interested in solar energy but depending on their situation a ground mounted system might be their best option. Still, here are some pros and cons of a ground mount solar system so you can make a well informed decision if it’s an option you are considering:
Pros
- They perform better: Ground-mounted solar panels often produce more solar energy than traditional rooftop panels. This is because a ground-mounted system typically uses larger panels and depending on the system type (and if it features a tracking system), can be adjusted to the correct position and angle for maximum sunlight absorption.
- They are easier to maintain: A ground-mounted system is easier to access which makes it a lot easier to clean debris or snow from it (compared to rooftop panels).
- They’re a great choice if your roof has issues: This type of solar installation is a great option for any homeowner who still wants to own solar panels and can afford it but simply lacks the proper roof for it. For example, if their roof is made up of weak materials or lacks enough space to fit panels, it wouldn’t be a good candidate for rooftop.
Cons
- They take up a lot of space: Since a ground-based solar system uses larger sized panels, it requires ample space to be set up. However, if you have plenty of open space in your yard, this won’t be an issue for you.
- They may disturb your house’s aesthetic: Unlike rooftop panels, ground panels are immediately visible. So unless they are set up properly to prevent this, they may disturb the overall decor and aesthetic of your house.
- They are pricier than rooftop panels: Setting up freestanding solar panels is a bit more complicated than rooftop panels. It involves additional steps like land clearing, soil testing along with racking and tracking system installations. This means extra labor and equipment are necessary which leads to a heftier price tag than a rooftop installation.
You don’t just have to rely on roof panels to join in on the solar movement. Depending on your situation, a ground mounted solar system may be your best option for a residential solar system. Nevertheless, if you are ready to explore your options to go solar with minimal stress involved, reach out to us and a member of our team will gladly answer any questions you have.