Ground-Mount System

A ground-mount solar system consists of solar panels installed on a racking structure with foundations in the ground, rather than on a rooftop. Ground-mounted arrays are an excellent option for homeowners with large properties but unsuitable roofs.

Ground-mount systems offer several advantages over rooftop installations. They can be oriented and tilted at the optimal angle for your latitude, maximizing energy production regardless of your roof’s direction or pitch. They are easier to access for maintenance, cleaning, and repairs. And they can be scaled to any size without being limited by roof space. There are two main types: fixed ground mounts (stationary frames set at a permanent angle) and tracking systems (motorized mounts that follow the sun throughout the day, boosting production by 15–25%). The drawbacks include higher installation costs due to foundation work and trenching for electrical conduit, the need for adequate yard space, and potential permitting requirements. Ground-mount systems typically cost $0.10–$0.30 more per watt than rooftop systems, but the increased energy production can offset the extra cost over time.