Do you want to install solar panels at your home to switch to renewable solar energy? Wondering how you could fulfill this desire as you don’t have enough space on your residential rooftop? Do you believe that a rooftop is the only place for a solar plant installation? If so, then think again. The technological advancement in the solar industry makes it possible to install solar systems in different areas. Installing an on ground solar system offers an additional option to power their home using clean solar energy.
In this post, you will walk through the functions and types of these solar panels along with more useful information.
What are On-Ground or Ground Mounted Solar Systems?
A ground-mounted solar system is installed on the ground instead of on the roof. It is the same as a rooftop solar power plant. The only difference is that they are mounted on the ground. Additionally, they can be moved with the sun to absorb more sunlight daily. Commercial businesses and households having an open space can set up their solar power production system to ensure a constant supply of cost-effective and eco-friendly electricity.
How Does a Ground Mounted Solar System Function?
Ground-mounted solar panels work similarly to a rooftop solar system for residential flats or commercial buildings. The panels capture the sunlight on the surface and produce an electric charge, which is then transferred to the solar inverter via conductive wires. On-ground systems need more wiring than rooftop panels to be installed far enough to prevent shading by your building.
Benefits of On-Ground Solar Panels
You would be surprised to know that on-ground panels produce more units of electricity than rooftop solar panels. This type of solar panel provides numerous benefits to users including the following –
Highly efficient
Ground-mounted solar systems are more energy efficient than rooftop ones even when they capture equal sunlight. The reason is that rooftop panels are installed on the fixed mounting structure. Thus, it absorbs sunlight based on the position of the sun. However, for on-ground solar panels, the structure is designed carefully based on the orientation and tilt angle for maximum sunlight exposure.
Based on the size, you could have more space for solar panel installation on the ground. You can add more panels with southern exposure for more sunlight absorption. A separate structure for installation leads to a precise tilt angle and improved efficiency. This will eventually increase the amount of electricity you produce with solar energy.
Reduce home damage risks
Since an on ground solar system can be placed in an open space without requiring drilling, there is no risk to your home. Additionally, the bracings are lightweight and can be easily removed. Placing these solar panels eliminates the risk of roof fire caused due to faulty wiring and other improper installation problems.
Keep solar systems away from the roof
Replacing a roof before solar installation or after hail damage can be an expensive process. Solar panels are designed to withstand climatic conditions and not break. However, they require proper installation to avoid roof-associated problems. Improper installation could lead to water leakage or other water issues, which need costly repairs.
Easier maintenance
Compared to rooftop solar system maintenance, the maintenance process of ground-mounted solar systems is increasingly convenient. You don’t need to climb on the roof to access a solar panel and do necessary cleaning or maintenance. The easier accessibility allows seamless inspection and maintenance of a ground-mounted system.
Easier expansion
Opting for ground-mounted solar systems allows easier expansion if you have enough space. You don’t need to stress about having a smaller rooftop area for solar panels. No obstructions like tall trees or others on the ground ensure no shade over the panels and provide more efficient use. Solar trackers can generate 10-45% more power as fixed-tilt solar panels.
Types of On-Ground Solar Panels
To provide more energy-efficient solutions, solar panel manufacturers keep bringing new advancements in the solar tech industry. The following are three main types of solar panels compatible with on-ground systems –
Polycrystalline
These solar panels are made by melting the silicon and then pouring it into a specific mould. This is a highly economical process that reduces wastage during the production phase. Moreover, their efficiency ranges between 16-17 percent.
Monocrystalline
These solar panels are made with pure silicon crystal and have a uniform shape and an uneven texture. Monocrystalline solar panels have higher durability and their efficiency ranges between 19-20 percent.
Bifacial
Featuring silicon film, these solar panels receive straight sunlight. However, the bottom part receives reflected sunlight from a light-colored or TPO roof. They are more efficient for on-ground solar power plants. They provide up to 22% efficiency. Also, you can use single and double-axis solar trackers to further improve their efficiency.
Installation Options for On-Ground Solar Panels
When you decide to install an on ground solar system, you will have 2 options –
I) Pole mount
Installing a pole-mount solar system on the ground requires digging a small deep hole in the ground with a concrete base. In addition, these systems can have different numbers of panels linked to one pole. Some systems can hold up to 24 panels. These systems come as either side-of-the-pole or top-of-the-pole mounts.
II) Standard ground mount
Traditional or standard ground-mount solar systems are mounted like rooftop solar panels. The panels are attached to a metal frame that can be tilted to effectively collect sunlight. These systems use several small anchors to support the panels’ racking table. Main anchor types include concrete ballasts, concrete piers, helical piles, and driven piers. This is the most popular, cost-effective, and easiest solution for on-ground installation.
Subsidies on Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
To encourage solar power adoption, the government of India has launched several solar power plant subsidies. Some of them are available for households while others are available for commercial purposes. To financially support people choosing ground-mounted solar panel installation, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has introduced the PM KUSUM scheme. This scheme is launched for Indian farmers. The subsidy is available till 31 December 2026.
Final Words
Installing an on ground solar system provides a cost-effective and energy-efficient solution to produce solar energy on a large scale. It can offer a pool of benefits over standard rooftop solar panels. Talk to Megamax Solar installers to find out if ground-mounted or on-ground solar panels are the right option for you to meet your energy needs. The experts will help you with the most useful information you need and correct installation with maintenance services.