Ground Mounted Verse Roof Mounted Solar System

Airflow is better in a ground mount system than a rooftop system so ground solar panels are kept cooler which increases their level of efficiency.

Ground mounted verse roof mounted solar system.

Room for expansion is usually not as much of an issue with a ground mounted array. Mounts are used to attach solar panels to the roof ground or another surface on your property. Roof mount systems affix to brackets on your roof while ground mount systems are built into a foundation at ground level. Fewer upgrades no changes to existing rooftops are necessary with ground mounted systems.

With proper installation a sturdy mount secures your panels in harsh weather and protects your investment. Labor charges are also higher for ground mounted panels due to the more involved mounting process. The additional materials needed including reinforced pole structures and cement foundations are responsible for much of the added expense. In many cases ground mounted solar panels can be your best option.

There are two types of solar mounting options. Ground mounted photovoltaic arrays typically cost more than rooftop systems. While rooftop solar arrays are the most common choice for homeowners there are many reasons to consider a ground mounted solar panel system. Generally ground mount solar panels cost a bit more than rooftop solar on a per watt basis because of additional labor and permitting that may be required for the installation.

Having to conform around roof vents antennas and other misc obstructions. If you have a small yard and a bulky array the panels may stand out more than they would on a rooftop. However on the residential scale ground mounted structures can be applied as well and might come with some great benefits that roof mounted solar systems cannot provide. Shading you can set up your solar panels in the sunniest regions of your yard to avoid shading.

Your final mounting choice will be dependant on available space with regard to exposure to sun. Most grid tied systems use the flush roof mounted arrangement while off grid systems usually use a roof ground mount or tracker that allows for seasonal tilt angle adjustment to provide maximum solar production throughout the year. Ground mounted solar pv systems are commonly used in large commercial or utility photovoltaic projects. A solar panel mount or solar racking system is the foundation that holds your solar array in place.

Roof mount and ground mount racking systems. Ground mounted solar panels typically sit between a few inches and several feet above the ground depending on your location and the mounting system. Ground mounted panels have more space below them so air is able to circulate more freely.