Imagine a world where clean as well as renewable energy power your house or office, lowering your carbon footprint and electricity expenditures. This ambition is possible with ground mount solar panels. As we know, ground-mounted solar panels are popular among households and businesses. According to research, these ground-mounted systems have benefits over rooftop systems.
I believe You may make better energy selections by understanding ground-mounted solar panels.
However, This blog will discuss ground-mounted solar panels as well as their pros and cons, installation prices, and DIY process.
So, stop paying excessive power bills and using fossil fuels. Alternatives like ground mount solar panels use the sun’s endless energy to power your house or company. Every morning, you might generate clean, renewable energy for your requirements.
However, advantages go beyond cost reductions. Ground-mounted panels are very flexible. They may be oriented for best solar exposure, maximizing energy output year-round, unlike rooftop systems. This benefits shady houses and those with limited roof space.
Intrigued? This is only the start. It is time to know the interesting world of ground-mounted solar panels with us. So saddle up and prepare to explore the sun’s real power via ground-mounted solar panels.
What Is a Ground-Mounted Solar Panel?
Ground-mounted solar panels are photovoltaic systems fixed on the ground. Ground-mounted solar panels may be put in outside spaces like fields, backyards, or huge estates, unlike rooftop panels. I believe this flexibility provides ideal placement to catch sunlight all day.
Mounting methods may be permanent or flexible for seasonal solar energy collection. Ground-mounted systems are more efficient than rooftop solar panels because they may avoid tree or building shade and have superior ventilation to maintain ideal operating temperatures.
Benefits of Ground-mounted Solar
Enhanced Energy Production:
Ground-mounted solar panels generate more than rooftop ones. Due to superior circulation and cooling, they often function at 22% efficiency. Due to heat retention and shadowing, rooftop systems typically run at 18-19% efficiency.
Easier Maintenance:
Accessibility makes ground-mounted equipment easier to maintain. At ground level, panels are easier to clean and examine and enable regular maintenance to improve performance and lifetime.
Flexible Installation:
Ground-mounted systems may be placed in different ways to maximize solar exposure. However, flexibility allows them to avoid shadows from neighboring buildings and trees and maximize energy collection.
Future Expansion:
Ground-mounted systems may readily add panels to meet growing energy demands. This is easier than extending a rooftop system, which may be restricted by roof area.
Enhanced Safety:
Ground-mounted solutions decrease rooftop electrical dangers. Lightning strikes and electrical fires are less likely as they are not tied to the residence.
Also, Read for a better understanding of the best size and dimensions for solar panels.
Disadvantages of Ground-Mounted Solar:
Space Requirements:
One of the biggest downsides of ground-mounted solar panels is their space need. Given the necessity for clear spaces to avoid shade, many residential homes may not have enough acreage for a ground-mounted system.
Higher Initial Costs:
Ground-mounted systems cost more than rooftop ones. Installation costs may rise owing to mounting structure and material requirements.
Permitting Challenges:
Installation of a ground-mounted solar system may need additional permissions depending on local zoning restrictions. This may delay installation due to its length.
Environmental Impact:
Large ground-mounted systems may need land removal, affecting local ecosystems.
Cost of a Ground-Mounted Solar System
The price of a ground-mounted solar system depends on many things. The average cost for a full ground-mounted solar system for a house is $10,000 and $30,000. This price usually covers the panels, the hanging frame, the transformer, and the labor to put them up.
To figure out how many ground-mounted solar panels you need you should look at how much energy you use, how many hours of sunlight you get on average, and how efficient the panels you choose are. A normal solar panel for a home makes about 300 watts of power. So, based on how much energy you use and the weather where you live, you might need anywhere from 10 to 30 panels to cover a big chunk of your power bill.
DIY Ground-Mounted Solar System Installation
It is possible to install a ground-mounted solar system without professional help, but there are a lot of things you should think about first. You can save money by installing ground mounted solar panels yourself but you need to know a lot about solar technology, electricity systems, and building rules in your area.
Skill Level:
You might be able to do the job yourself if you know how to work with electricity and building things. But if you do not have these skills then it is best to hire a professional provider to make sure you’re safe and following the rules in your area.
Authorizations and Rules:
Check your local building and zoning rules before you start a do-it-yourself fix. Even if it is a do-it-yourself job, you might still need to get licenses.
Equipment:
A lot of companies sell do-it-yourself solar kits that come with everything you need, like panels, batteries, and hanging tools. Make sure the kit you pick can be installed in the ground and meets your energy needs. We suggest you Get a Quote from a professional.
Performance Over Time:
A system that was set up by a professional usually comes with warranties and performance promises. If you do the work yourself, you might not get as much peace of mind, which could hurt your investment in the long run.
How many ground mount solar panels will I need for my home?
The number of ground-mounted solar panels you need for your house depends on your energy usage, panel wattage, and typical sunshine hours.
Average Panel Needs
The average house needs 20 ground-mounted solar panels. According to my experience, this estimate uses 300-watt panels in an area with 5 peak sun hours per day. And this setup generates enough power for a typical home.
Your Needs Calculation
- Annual Energy Use: Find your home’s yearly power use. The typical American home uses 10,632 kWh per year.
- Power from the sun Find your area’s photovoltaic power output using the World Bank Global Solar Atlas. Let’s say your location’s production is 1,400 kWh/kWp. Divide your yearly usage by this output to get the total kilowatts required.
- Panel Wattage: Divide 7,600 watts by your solar panels’ wattage to satisfy your energy demands. For example, 400-watt panels need 19 panels, whereas 350-watt panels require 22.
Conclusion
For successful solar energy use, ground mount solar panels are the best. They provide higher energy output, better maintenance, and flexible installation for households with enough space. Consider the greater initial expenditures and space requirements while evaluating whether this system is right for you.
Consider your property, budget, and energy needs when considering ground-mounted solar panels. You can decide whether ground-mounted solar is best for you by analyzing the pros and cons.
If you’re ready to switch to renewable energy, get a quotation to learn more and save money. Then, Get a Quote because our solar energy consultants may personalize assessments to your region, energy demands, and budget. With their help, you may investigate financing, tax credits, and incentives to make ground-mounted solar more affordable.