Harness the power of the sun with our efficient and sustainable ground mounted solar installations
Ground-mounted solar systems are photovoltaic (PV) systems that are installed on the ground rather than on a rooftop. These systems are ideal for properties with ample land space and can be positioned for optimal sun exposure throughout the day.
Ground-mounted solar panels offer several advantages over rooftop installations, including easier access for maintenance, optimal positioning for maximum energy production, and the ability to install larger systems without roof space constraints.
Fixed-tilt ground mounts are the most common type of ground-mounted solar system. These systems are secured to the ground using steel and aluminum framing, with panels fixed at a specific angle to optimize sun exposure based on the location's latitude.
Solar tracking systems follow the sun's movement throughout the day, adjusting the angle of the panels to maximize energy production. These systems can be single-axis (tracking east to west) or dual-axis (tracking both east-west and north-south).
Ground-mounted systems can be positioned at the perfect angle and orientation to capture maximum sunlight throughout the day, resulting in higher energy production compared to rooftop installations.
Ground-mounted systems can be easily expanded as your energy needs grow. They also offer flexibility in design and can be installed on various terrains where rooftop installation isn't feasible.
Ground-mounted panels are more accessible for cleaning and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance throughout their lifespan and making repairs simpler when needed.
The solar panels are the most visible component of a ground-mounted solar system. They convert sunlight into electricity through the photovoltaic effect. Modern solar panels come in various types, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film, each with different efficiency levels and aesthetic appearances.
The number of panels in your system will depend on your energy needs, available space, and budget. High-quality solar panels can last 25-30 years with proper maintenance.
The mounting structure is the framework that holds the solar panels in place. For ground-mounted systems, this typically consists of steel or aluminum frames anchored to the ground using concrete foundations, ground screws, or ballasted systems depending on the soil conditions and local building codes.
The mounting structure must be engineered to withstand local weather conditions, including high winds and snow loads, while maintaining the optimal tilt angle for the panels.
Inverters convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity that can be used in your home or business. There are several types of inverters used in ground-mounted systems:
A ground-mounted solar system includes various electrical components that ensure safe and efficient operation:
The installation process begins with a thorough site assessment to determine the optimal location for your ground-mounted solar system. This includes evaluating sun exposure, shading, soil conditions, and proximity to your electrical panel.
Based on the site assessment and your energy needs, our engineers will design a custom solar system for your property. We'll handle all necessary permits and approvals from local authorities and utility companies.
The installation team will prepare the ground by clearing vegetation, leveling the area if necessary, and installing the foundation system. The mounting structure is then assembled and secured to the foundation.
Solar panels are mounted on the structure, and all electrical components are installed and connected. After final inspections and utility approval, your system will be activated and begin generating clean, renewable energy.
Ground-mounted solar systems require sufficient open space with good sun exposure. As a general rule, you'll need approximately 100 square feet of space for every 1 kW of solar capacity. For a typical residential system of 6-10 kW, this means 600-1,000 square feet of land.
The land should be relatively flat or have a gentle south-facing slope (in the Northern Hemisphere) for optimal sun exposure. Areas with significant shading from trees, buildings, or other structures should be avoided.
The type of soil on your property will influence the foundation system used for your ground-mounted solar array. Different soil types require different anchoring methods:
A geotechnical assessment may be recommended for larger installations to ensure the mounting system is properly designed for your specific soil conditions.
Before installing a ground-mounted solar system, you'll need to check local zoning regulations, building codes, and homeowner association (HOA) rules if applicable. Some areas have specific requirements regarding:
Our team will help navigate these regulations and secure all necessary permits for your installation.
While ground-mounted solar systems are generally low-maintenance, there are some ongoing considerations:
Ground-mounted solar systems typically have a higher initial cost compared to rooftop systems due to the additional materials and labor required for the mounting structure and foundation. However, they often deliver better long-term performance and ROI.
The cost of a ground-mounted solar system depends on several factors:
Despite the higher upfront cost, ground-mounted solar systems offer significant financial benefits:
Most ground-mounted solar systems have a payback period of 5-10 years, depending on your location, energy usage, and available incentives. After this period, you'll enjoy virtually free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of the system's life.
We installed a 250kW ground-mounted system for a large agricultural operation, reducing their energy costs by 85% and providing clean power for irrigation systems and farm equipment.
We designed and installed a 500kW solar array for a business park, providing sustainable energy for multiple businesses and reducing carbon emissions by over 700 tons annually.
We implemented a 1MW solar farm for a local municipality, powering government buildings and providing excess energy back to the grid, saving taxpayers over $150,000 annually.
The land requirement depends on the system size and configuration. As a general rule, a 1kW system typically requires about 100 square feet of land. For a typical residential system of 6-10kW, you'll need approximately 600-1,000 square feet. Commercial and utility-scale systems require significantly more space.
Ground-mounted solar panels can be more efficient than roof-mounted panels for several reasons. They can be positioned at the optimal angle and orientation for your location, aren't constrained by roof orientation, have better airflow for cooling (which improves efficiency), and are easier to keep clean. These factors can result in 10-25% more energy production compared to rooftop systems.
Ground-mounted solar systems require minimal maintenance. Regular tasks include periodic cleaning to remove dust and debris (2-4 times per year depending on your location), vegetation management around the array, and occasional inspection of electrical components. Systems with tracking mechanisms may require additional maintenance for moving parts. Our maintenance packages can handle all of these tasks for you.
High-quality solar panels typically come with 25-30 year warranties and can continue producing electricity for even longer, though at slightly reduced efficiency. The mounting structure and electrical components are generally designed to last at least as long as the panels. With proper maintenance, you can expect your ground-mounted solar system to provide clean energy for 25-40 years.
Yes, properly designed and installed ground-mounted solar systems are engineered to withstand local weather conditions, including high winds, heavy snow, and hail. The mounting structures are typically rated for wind speeds of 120+ mph and snow loads appropriate for your region. Our engineering team ensures that all systems meet or exceed local building codes and weather resistance requirements.
Contact us today for a free consultation and site assessment. Our experts will help you design the perfect ground-mounted solar solution for your needs.
Bio Green Energy Solutions is a pioneer in solar and renewable energy, offering sustainable and affordable energy systems. Their services include biogas solutions and various solar systems such as rooftop on-grid and off-grid systems, solar hot water systems, street lighting.