What Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
Ground mounted solar panels are photovoltaic modules installed on a free-standing structure anchored to the ground rather than directly attached to a building roof.
The panels are supported by a ground mounting structure that may include foundations, posts, beams, rails, braces and module clamps.
Ground-mounted systems can be used for utility-scale, commercial, industrial, agricultural and suitable residential solar applications.
Why Use Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
☀️ Flexible Orientation
Ground arrays generally provide more freedom to optimize panel orientation and tilt than roof-mounted systems.
📐 Flexible Layout
Rows can be arranged according to land availability, shading requirements and project design.
🔧 Maintenance Access
Ground arrays can be planned with access paths and working areas around the PV system.
📈 Scalability
Ground-mounted solar can support projects ranging from smaller distributed systems to large solar farms.
🏗️ Independent Structure
The PV array uses its own foundation and structural system rather than depending on an existing roof.
🌱 Land Utilization
Available land can be planned around module spacing, access, drainage and other site requirements.
Types of Ground Solar Mounting Systems
Fixed-Tilt Systems
Fixed structures hold PV modules at a predetermined orientation and tilt.
Adjustable Systems
Adjustable structures allow the module angle to be modified according to project requirements.
Single-Axis Trackers
Tracking systems rotate modules along one axis to follow the apparent movement of the sun.
Distributed Ground Mounts
Smaller ground-mounted configurations can be designed for distributed solar applications.
Flexible Support Systems
Flexible PV support structures can be considered for selected challenging terrain and project applications.
Ground Screw Foundations
Ground screws can provide a foundation option for suitable ground-mounted solar projects.
Ground Solar Array Design Considerations
- Available land area
- Solar orientation and tilt
- Module dimensions
- Row spacing
- Terrain and slope
- Wind and snow loads
- Soil conditions
- Foundation selection
- Drainage
- Maintenance access
FAQ
What are ground mounted solar panels?
They are photovoltaic panels installed on a free-standing structure anchored to the ground instead of being mounted directly on a roof.
Are ground mounted solar panels better than roof panels?
The appropriate system depends on the project. Ground mounting can offer greater layout flexibility, while rooftop systems use existing roof space.
Can ground mounted solar panels be used for commercial projects?
Yes. Commercial and industrial sites with suitable land can use ground-mounted PV systems.
Can ground mounted solar panels be installed at home?
Yes, where sufficient land, suitable site conditions and required local approvals are available.
Explore Ground Solar Mounting Solutions
Discover PV mounting systems designed for commercial, industrial and utility-scale solar projects.
Ground-Mounted Solar Racking PV Mounting Systems