What to Know About Ground Mounted Solar Panels?

Ground mounting solar panels involves placing photovoltaic panels directly on the earth’s surface, typically using mounting racks or frameworks to secure and support the panels. Ground mount solar panels allow for flexibility in positioning, optimizing sunlight exposure and accommodating larger solar arrays. It is an alternative to roof installation and is suitable for various applications, including residential backyard, commercial, and utility-scale solar projects. Backyard solar panels are installed in 1 one 4 options, including (pole mounted solar panels and fixed-tilt systems). 

Ground mounted solar panel costs differ according to system size, chosen installation option, and how far the system is from home. 

To save installation costs, DIY solar ground mount installation in 10 steps, including (preparing the ground, installing mounting racks, connecting and wiring, checking and testing the system).

There are differences between solar panels on the roof vs yard, including (solar panels on the roof cost less, and solar panels attachment to a roof is more difficult). Solar panels on roofs are attached using mounting racks or frames secured to the roof structure.

This article answers the following questions: What are ground mounted solar panels? Can I Put Solar Panels in My Yard? How Much Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost? How Far Can Solar Panels Be From a House? Can You DIY Solar Ground Mount Installation? How to Ground Solar Panels? What are the Differences Between Solar Panels on the Roof vs the Yard? How are Solar Panels Attached to a Roof? Do Solar Panels Have to Be on The Roof?

What are Ground Mounted Solar Panels?

Ground-mounted solar panels are solar systems that are installed directly on the ground, as opposed to being mounted on a building’s roof. These freestanding solar panels are typically positioned on a rack or framework, not roof structure. Ground mounted solar panels are found in yards or open areas, utilizing a supportive structure to securely hold the ground mounted solar array. Backyard solar panels involve placing the panels on poles or fixed tilt, creating a robust and efficient ground based solar power system.

Can I Put Solar Panels in My Yard?

Yes, you can put solar panels in your yard using 1 of the 4 options are shown in the next picture. 

To put solar system in your backyard use 1 of the following 4 options listed bellow.

• Pole Mounted Arrays. It is a grounding option useful when optimizing space or dealing with uneven terrain.
• Fixed-Tilt Systems. It is a grounding option where tilt is set during installation and remains constant.
• Tracking Systems. It is a grounding option follows the sun’s path, adjusting the orientation of the solar panels throughout the day. 
• Ballasted Systems. It is a grounding option suitable for locations where digging into the ground is challenging.

How Much Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost?

The 16 kilowatts (kW) ground mounted solar panel system costs about 37,660 dollars after incentives. A 5 kW ground mounted system approximately cost 18,750 dollars after incentives and rebates.

Ground mounted solar panels cost depends on the average cost-per-watt of home ground-mounted systems, 3.36 dollars per watt.

Ground mounted solar panels are more expensive than rooftop installations due to the additional work required for completion.

Ground mounted solar panels depend on the costs of wiring cables, which depends on the distance between the home and the grounded solar system.

How Far Can Solar Panels Be From a House?

Grounded solar panels can be as far as 500 feet (152.40 meters) from a residence, but this would necessitate the use of extended and costly wiring to minimize energy loss. Opting for a distance of 50 feet (15.24 meters) or less is recommended, as it ensures a voltage drop of 2% only.

The greater the distance between the solar panel and the house, the longer the cable required and the higher the cost. To save costs and maintain an energy and voltage drop of 3% or less, we advise keeping the distance at 100 feet (30.48 meters) or less. Beyond this distance, longer and thicker cables become necessary. These wires increase resistance, causing a more significant voltage drop. In solar panel installations, the aim is to maximize output at the minimum cost, so using the shortest possible wires is recommended.

As per electrical specifications, a voltage drop of 3% is acceptable. A 100 foot (30.4804 meter) distance between the solar panel and the house aligns with this criterion.

Can You DIY Solar Ground Mount Installation?

Yes, you can DIY solar ground mount installation, but it requires careful planning, knowledge, and adherence to safety guidelines. While a DIY approach saves costs, it do not suit everyone. If you lack the necessary skills or are uncertain about any aspect of the installation, you should consider consulting with a professional or hiring a certified installer to ensure a safe and effective solar ground mount system. The following part helps and explains how to ground a solar system.

How to Ground Solar Panels?

To ground solar panels, follow the 10 steps in the following picture.

The step by step instructions to ground solar panels are in the following list.

1. Select the Installation Site. Ensure the ground is stable and suitable for supporting the solar panel system.
2. Prepare the Ground. Level the ground to provide a stable foundation for the solar panel installation.
3. Install Mounting Racks. These racks provide support and elevation for the solar panels.
4. Position Solar Panels. Place the solar panels onto the mounting racks or poles, securing them in place. Ensure proper spacing and alignment for optimal sunlight absorption.
5. Connect Wiring. Connect the wiring between the solar panels, ensuring a secure and efficient electrical connection.
6. Secure the System. Anchor the mounting racks firmly to the ground to withstand environmental factors such as wind and rain.
7. Ground the System. This typically involves connecting the metal components of the solar panel system to a grounding electrode, preventing electrical shock hazards.
8. Check and Test. Conduct thorough checks of the entire system to ensure proper installation. Test the electrical connections and overall functionality of the ground mounted solar array.
9. Comply with Regulations. Adhere to local regulations and building codes regarding solar panel installations. 
10. Monitor and Maintain. Regularly monitor the performance of the ground-mounted solar panels and conduct maintenance as needed. 

What are the Differences Between Solar Panels on the Roof vs the Yard?

Comparing “solar panels on roof vs the ground” involves evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of each. The following table shows the pros and cons between mounting solar panels on the ground and installing solar panels on a roof. 

How are Solar Panels Attached to a Roof?

Solar panels on roofs are typically attached using mounting racks or frames secured to the roof structure. This involves anchoring the solar system directly onto the roof surface instead of ground, ensuring stability and proper alignment for optimal sunlight exposure. While this information pertains to solar panel installation on roofs, the focus remains on understanding how solar panels are attached, providing a comparative aspect for ground-mounted systems. But still, panels can be on roofs or on the ground.

Do Solar Panels Have to Be on The Roof?

Solar panels do not necessarily have to be on the roof. Solar panels systems can also be ground mounted, offering flexibility in installation options. The choice between roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar panels depends on available space, sunlight exposure, and individual preferences.