GROUND MOUNTED SOLAR PANELS II

Is ground-mounted solar cheaper than roof-mounted systems?

While it may seem counterintuitive, in fact, ground-mounted systems are generally more expensive than roof-mounted systems. You might think it would be expensive to drag the panels onto the roof and install them in an out-of-the-way location, but using the roof as a starting point can actually keep costs down.

When installing rooftop solar panels, the racks need a foundation on which to mount them. That might mean laying a concrete foundation or various other options, but in any case, you're not simply putting your solar panels on the ground and you're done.

This additional solar panel installation cost results in ground-mounted panels costing more than roof-mounted panels of the same capacity, albeit not by much. Depending on the size of the foundation and solar panels installed, you may also need to obtain additional permits for installation, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Some types of ground mounts can be manually adjusted year-round to make the most of the available sunlight throughout the sun. While they don't offer the same versatility as pole-mounted systems, they offer more adjustment capabilities than roof-mounted systems, generate more power in the long run and close the price gap.

You should also consider that while installation costs are higher, you are more likely to get the best performance from a floor mounted panel. Because they don't have to make any concessions based on the angle or orientation of the roof, they can be installed for absolutely perfect sun exposure. That means more electricity production, potentially saving you a lot over the lifetime of the solar system.

Pros and cons of ground mounted solar panels?

When you think about ground-mounted systems, the biggest advantage is that they still allow homeowners to go green when roofing isn't possible. Why can't someone use roof mounted panels? Maybe the roof is not at the right angle or facing in the wrong direction needed to generate renewable energy.

You may also find that your roof (at least the south-facing part) isn't big enough to hold all the panels needed to power your home. In this case, ground-mounted solar panels are a clear choice. They can basically be placed anywhere, allowing you to choose the best location to generate the most power.

There's also the fact that ground-mounted panels don't require any work on the roof. Whenever you do a new installation on your roof, there is a chance of accidental damage. If installed improperly, your rooftop solar panels may provide an entry point for moisture and pets to enter the roof. Over time, these can damage your roof and may require expensive repairs to correct.

Solar panels actually work better when they're cool, so it's to your advantage to circulate air around your panels. Floor-mounted panels have a large airflow gap, while most roof-mounted panels actually rest directly on the roof. While this is a minor issue, it's another point to support ground mounted systems.

Solar panel maintenance is also much easier for ground mounted panels. To get to the roof mounting plate, you have to climb on the roof. There is no other way to solve it. Whenever something goes wrong with your floor mounted panels, you can simply walk up to them. This is a great winter perk, and you can use a home broom to remove snow instead of some specialized snow removal tools.

While being closer to the ground makes them easier to maintain, it also makes them more prone to damage. Ground mounted panels are more prone to damage from simple accidents like a runaway baseball or even damage from wild animals. Not to mention easier access for any vandals.

Being close to the ground also means your panels will collect more dust and grime, which will fly around but are relatively close to the ground. While roof and post-mounted systems are almost always kept clean enough under typical rainfall, you'll often find yourself having to hose down ground-mounted panels.

For most homeowners, however, the biggest issue will be the space the ground-mounted system takes up. How important this is varies from person to person, so you really need to take the time to consider which solar panel system is right for you.

Grounding of Ground Mounted Solar Panels

From what we've seen today, it's clear that choosing between floor mount, pole mount, and roof mount isn't a simple matter of deciding which is best. Instead, the only way to make the right choice is to carefully consider your own needs and what you want from a solar panel system.