Ground-mounted solar panels
Ground-mounted solar panels
Rooftop solar panels are the most sought-after option for homeowners when it comes to installing solar systems on their homes. Many homeowners aren’t aware that solar panels mounted on the ground are just as affordable and simple to set up.
What are ground-mount solar panels?
Ground-mounted solar panels are solar panels that are installed at the ground level. They function in the same way to rooftop solar panels. These panels receive sunlight which is then converted to electricity through solar cells. It can be used to power a structure, or communities as when using solar farms.
These are the top three facts about ground-mounted solar panels.
Ground-mounted solar systems are often the best choice.
Solar panels that are mounted on roofs have become the most popular choice for homeowners. However, ground-mounted solar panels are also an option.
Ground-mounted solar panels generally more expensive as compared to rooftop solar panels because of the added labor and permits that may be required. Ground-mounted solar systems might help you save money in the end if your house isn’t suitable for solar installations.
Rooftop solar arrays offer a limited range of performance because of the roof they’re placed on. The solar array won’t produce as much if it’s not placed at the right angle and faces south, or is surrounded by obstructions such as skylights or chimneys. Ground-mounted solar panels, on the other hand, can be placed wherever the best conditions are in place.
There is a chance that your roof is not sufficient to support an array of solar panels that is able to meet your electricity consumption. Ground-mounted solar systems, on the other hand can be adapted to meet your electricity consumption without the restrictions of a rooftop system.
All ground-mounted solar panels systems are not created equal
There are two kinds of ground-mounted solar panel systems:
Ground-mounts are made from metal frames that are installed into the ground. It keeps your panels at a fixed angle. The standard solar panels mounted on the ground can be adjusted manually to adjust for seasonal changes.
Pole-mounted solar systems can accommodate multiple panels on one pole , and elevate panels above conventional ground mounts. Many pole-mounted solar systems include tracking systems that automatically tilt the panels to get the most sunlight.
With tracking systems, solar panel manufacturing can be increased by as much as 25%. If you’re considering adding an automated tracking system to your ground-mounted array There are two options. Single-axis tracking systems track your solar panels all day, following the sun’s path across the sky. Dual-axis tracking systems are also able to account for seasonal changes in the sun’s direction.
All homeowners can benefit from ground-mounted solar panels systems
Even if your home is suitable for rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar panels have many advantages.
Ground-mounted solar panels are easy to set up because they can be placed on any level of land. They don’t have to be drilled into the roof.
Furthermore, the bracings used in traditional ground-mount systems are removed with ease and are light. They are more secure if you choose the pole-mount.
You will generate more power than a comparable-sized rooftop system and save money in the long term.
Ground-mounted solar panels can be easily cleaned and maintained. It is very convenient to be able to sweep snow off your panels in case you live in an area that gets lots of snow.
Ground-mount solar systems are available through Texas Solar Group installers. The price of a traditional ground-mounted solar panel is comparable to that of a roof-mounted system. If you choose to include the tracking feature you’ll need to pay an initial cost however this could be paid back by a higher level of electricity production, making the tracking system more affordable for homeowners.
What is a suitable area for a ground-mounted solar system?
You’re looking for a space that’s perfect for you.
- In the southern part, it is flat or slopes (up about 5°).
- A floodplain beyond 100 years of age isn’t likely
- Shade from nearby trees not necessary
- It is easy to identify the electrical infrastructure in place, avoiding expensive trenching and cabling.
- The large installations (above 100kW) are not visible from nearby homes.
- A suitable surface (not too soft so that concrete foundations are needed However, it should not be too hard that pre-drilling is required)
A geotechnical study is required before a solar installation can proceed. This will confirm that the right solar mounting structure is able to be installed, as well as the warranty.
Different Ground Mounted Solar Panel Racking Systems
Traditional pillars of steel are the most affordable method to put in ground mount systems. Steel pillars can be used for driving in if the ground has been deemed appropriate by the geotechnical assessment.
Concrete Sometimes, a concrete footing is required in order to mount the panels. This gives greater stability and resistance to wind.
Ground Screws – While they are more expensive to set up, they provide a reliable solution. The screws can be drilled using specialized equipment.
Ballasted – It’s possible to not penetrate the ground entirely when it is required. Concrete blocks can be used to install solar panels. They can be placed on the ground and support the solar system in place.
Single-axis Tracking - Tracking systems use motors to pivot panels throughout the day to ensure that they are in the correct distance from the sun. Single-axis trackers follow the sun’s course from East to West.
Dual Axis Tracking - Dual axis trackers have multiple motor distinctions that allow these panels to rotate in a more circular direction, increasing the power output.
Ground-Mounted Solar: Drawbacks
Ground-mounted solar systems do have drawbacks, but it all depends on what your particular situation is.
The requirement for land is that it must be cultivated.
Ground-mounted systems come with the obvious disadvantage of needing to be placed on terrain. They are therefore more suitable for suburban or rural settings as opposed to urban ones. Ground-mounted solar systems capable producing enough power to meet an American household’s typical daily needs would require approximately 1000 square feet uninterrupted sunlight.
Potential Environmental Impact
The United States has more than 8 billion square meters of roofs that could be used for the installation of solar panels. They are capable of double the nation’s electricity production capacity. There is no requirement to create additional land available. Rooftop solar is low impact on the environment as a result of the land used.
A typical ground-mounted solar array requires the land to is cleared from vegetation, then graded prior to it being able to be covered in gravel. Sacrificing land with an environmental significance is expensive. It can result in loss of time in obtaining permits and public approvals, aswell as potential lawsuits.
Ground-mounted solar projects can be installed on marginal land such as brownfields and other disturbed or contaminated land to minimize their impact on the environment. It is also possible to mount solar panels high enough for Agrivoltaics. This is a combination of solar panels and agriculture. The panels can be used to support crop growth or shade livestock. The United States is introducing more renewable energy sitting tools to help with the environmentally-friendly development of ground-mounted solar plants.
Home Resale Value
A Zillow study has revealed that solar panel homes sell at 4.1 percent less than comparable homes that do not have solar panels. However, a ground mounted system could dissuade potential buyers who are looking to utilize the property for a different use.
Extra Permitting
In some areas, solar rooftop panels might be classified as “permitted development”. However, because this is a novel usage for property, ground-mounted systems could require approval from local zoning officials or environmental authorities. This depends on system size and height as and local rules.
Extra Wiring
Ground-mounted systems require longer wires that connects to the house. To keep wires safe from getting eaten by squirrels and the like, it might be necessary to place them in a suitable location.
What is the cost of ground-mounted solar panels?
A solar panel costs around $2.77 per Watt on average. This means that a 10 Kilowatt system will be $27,000.8 Ground-mounted systems are more expensive in initial costs. We include extra mounting equipment and labor and permits.
Solar systems are an investment for the long term. Therefore, it is important to know your return-on-investment (ROI) not only the initial costs. The ROI of a solar installation is determined by a variety of aspects, such as the cost and efficiency as well as the cost of financing, labor costs incentives offered by states and federal governments as well as the cost of electric power in your area. It takes 7 to 12 years before the system’s expense to be completely payed off.
The efficiency of the system is the most important factor that will determine whether a ground-mounted array is more competitive in price as compared to a roof-mounted solar array. It might be more efficient if it can produce more electricity with fewer panels. This allows it to have a faster return on investment.
Is Ground-Mounted Solar cheaper than Roof-Mounted Systems?
Ground-mounted systems may be more costly than roof-mounted systems, even though it might seem like a contradiction. While it may seem as if it’s a hassle to transport panels onto roofs, and having them installed in difficult locations would be costly, using a roof to start building on can help reduce costs.
Solar panels that are mounted on roofs require a base for the installation of the racking. You may need to lay a foundation of cement or other substances. But, this involves more than simply mounting the solar panel mounts and declaring it good.
Ground-mount panels cost more than roof-mount, however it’s not too much. It is possible that you will require additional permits, based on the size of your solar array and foundation. This will add time and expense.
Ground-mounts can be adjusted manually all year long to ensure they make the most of the sun’s rayons. While they don’t offer the same flexibility as pole-mount systems but they are able to be adjusted more than roof-mount systems. This permits for greater electricity production and reduces the price gap.
It’s important to note that although the installation will cost more, the ground-mount panels will perform better. They don’t need to be adjusted to the direction or orientation of your roof. This lets them be placed where they will get the maximum sun exposure. This means that you can generate more power, which could potentially reduce your costs over the life of your solar system.
Ground-mounted solar panels: What are the pros and cons?
It is important to be aware of the pros and cons of a ground-mounted system when you’re considering it over a roof system. Your needs and the parameters which you and your contractor can decide on will ultimately impact your decision.
Pros
Freestanding solar panels have the advantage of increasing sunlight exposure. While your roof might not be perfectly aligned (e.g. it’s in the south and slopes 30-40 degrees) it is possible to choose which way to place your solar system on the ground to maximize energy production. The systems that are mounted on the ground work better because they have greater air circulation beneath the panels. This allows them to remain cool. Ground-mounted systems are also easier to access for maintenance. This could reduce the cost of labor.
Cons
Ground-mounted systems may not be the ideal choice for all. Rooftop systems can be placed on top of your roof and take up an area that is valuable on your property. Ground-mounted systems can require you to use valuable land. This alone can be problematic for homeowners who want to use the area to garden, recreational or farming. In certain situations it is possible to combine farming and ground-mounted systems by using Agrivoltatics. Ground-mounted solar panels are more susceptible to being damaged by animals and those trying to modify the equipment. Ground mount solar systems are more expensive when you don’t need extensive roof repairs in order to set up a solar panel on your roof (which you’ll likely need to complete in the future).
Texas Solar Group is the best place to start your solar journey.
You can get seven estimates from local installers via the Texas Solar Group Marketplace. This will allow you to pick the one that best suits your needs and is priced at a fair price. Make sure to register your property today for a consultation with one of the Energy Advisors, who will answer all your questions during your entire registration process.
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