Ground Solar Mount Vs. Roof Mount Solar Systems
With current economic and environmental trends, solar energy is becoming increasingly relevant. Government incentives further enhance the opportune moment to invest in solar panels, ensuring your property's long-term value.
When going solar, you have two main installation options: roof mounts and ground mounts. Roof-mounted systems offer cost savings by utilizing your existing roof as a base and minimizing property space usage. Ground-mounted systems, while requiring more land, facilitate easier installation and maintenance. They also provide better control over the panel orientation, enhancing energy production.
When deciding on solar installations for your business, farm, or home, it's helpful to understand both the advantages and potential setbacks of each option. We provide detailed comparisons of roof versus ground-mounted solar panels, including installation methods, costs, benefits, and possible disadvantages, to help you decide wisely.
What Is a Ground-Mount Solar System?
Ground-mounted solar panels sit on open land around your home. You'll need a good amount of sunshine and enough space for the system. The panels are supported by metal frames anchored securely to the ground. If your roof isn't suitable for solar panels, a ground mount offers a great alternative. While the initial cost might be higher, ground mounts can be positioned for optimal sunlight capture, making them more efficient overall. If you have high energy needs and require many panels, a ground-mounted PV system is often the best choice.
What Is a Roof-Mount Solar System?
A rooftop solar system consists of mounting a PV array on top of residential or commercial buildings. To secure the PV system firmly to the roof, solar racking is employed, typically constructed from aluminum. You can install a rooftop system on various roof types, including both flat and sloped roofs.
Ground Mount vs. Roof Mount
Both options effectively capture sunlight for home energy use. Key differences lie in cost, permits, production capabilities, racking systems, and accessibility.
● Cost: Contrary to common belief, ground mounts are more expensive than roof mounts as they require additional structures to support the racking system. Roof mounts utilize the roof itself for support.
● Permits: Permit requirements vary by municipality. Different rules may apply to ground and roof mounts. For example, some municipalities prohibit ground mounts visible from the street. Local regulations might influence your system type.
● Production Capabilities: Ground mounts can generally accommodate more panels due to available space and orientation flexibility, potentially generating more energy than roof mounts. However, a roof system with better solar access might still be more productive.
● Solar racking systems: Standard ground mounts use metal frames driven into the ground to secure photovoltaic panels, typically with tilt angles ranging from 0 to 40 degrees. Pole-mounted solar systems support multiple solar panels on a single pole, often incorporating solar trackers and are elevated higher than standard ground mounts. Roof mounts, depending on the type and size of the roof, employ different mounting systems such as clamps, hooks, ballasts, and rail systems.
● Accessibility: Maintenance is simpler with ground mounts; cleaning snow or debris is easier on the ground. We advise against homeowners cleaning roof arrays themselves and suggest hiring professionals if needed. Ground systems can be easily cleaned with a foam-tipped brush.
This video can help you understand whether ground mount vs roof mount which is better: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzGlvWsPN6g
Advantages of a Ground Mount Solar System
Optimal Sunlight Capture
To get the most power from your solar system, it needs to soak up as much sunlight as possible. This means finding the best angle and direction for your panels. While this can be tricky with rooftop systems, ground mounts offer more flexibility. You can point them in any direction and adjust the angle to maximize sun exposure. This is a key reason why people choose ground mounts for optimal sunlight capture.
Easy Access for Maintenance
Ground mounted solar systems are incredibly easy to access, whether for installation, repairs, or regular upkeep. Cleaning the panels and performing important routine maintenance is a breeze. You won't have to worry about climbing on your roof to remove dust, leaves, pollen, or snow.
Ideal for Hillsides and Snowy Climates
Pole mounts offer adjustable tilt angles, so you can raise your ground mount solar system high above the ground. This is especially useful in winter, as it keeps your panels clear of snowdrifts. Ground mounted systems also work well on properties with slopes, as pole mounts can be easily installed on steep hills.
Improved Airflow for Peak Performance
Solar panels can lose efficiency when they get too hot. Ground mount systems have an edge over rooftop panels because they benefit from better airflow. This keeps the panels cooler and helps them generate more power.
Disadvantages of a Ground Mount Solar System
Higher Initial Investment
Ground mount solar systems require more components and labor to install, which means a bigger upfront investment. You might need to build a strong foundation to support the system, similar to a roof structure. Plus, you'll need to dig trenches for wiring and connect the panels to your home, burying them at least 18 inches deep. Renting heavy equipment for this can add to the installation cost.
Space Requirements
Ground mount systems do take up a fair amount of space. If you have at least a quarter to half an acre of free land, it might be a good fit. But if your property is smaller, you may have to make some tough choices about how you use your outdoor space. You might need to sacrifice other important home improvements to accommodate the solar panels.
Complicated Permitting Process
Many local governments classify ground mount solar systems as "new construction." This typically means a more complicated permitting process, including higher fees. Be prepared to provide your local building authority with extra documentation, like detailed structural drawings, setback measurements from property lines, and load-bearing calculations verified by a professional engineer. Because the permitting and approval process can be more challenging for ground mounts, it's a good idea to work with an experienced installer who can guide you through the steps.
| Aspect | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Optimal Sunlight Capture | Offers flexibility in panel direction and angle, maximizing sun exposure. | Pros |
| Easy Access for Maintenance | Easy to access for installation, repairs, and maintenance without rooftop access. | |
| Ideal for Hillsides and Snowy Climates | Adjustable tilt angles useful for keeping panels clear of snow and ideal for sloped terrains. | |
| Improved Airflow for Peak Performance | Better airflow around panels helps maintain cooler temperatures and higher efficiency. | |
| Higher Initial Investment | Requires more components, labor, and potentially heavy equipment, increasing initial costs. | Cons |
| Space Requirements | Occupies significant land space, may necessitate trade-offs in property use. | |
| Complicated Permitting Process | Often treated as new construction by local governments, requiring extensive documentation and potentially higher fees. |
Advantages of a Roof Mount Solar System
Lower Labor Costs
Rooftop solar panel installations are typically easier on your wallet when it comes to labor costs compared to ground mount systems. They require less work because you don't need any extra hardware or construction, which keeps the costs down.
Simplified Permitting
Getting your rooftop solar system approved is usually a straightforward process. You'll mainly need to submit your home's blueprints and make sure your electrical and wiring systems comply with local codes.
Space-Saving Solution
Rooftop panels are a fantastic choice if your property is a bit tight on space. They don't take up any extra room on your land, unlike ground-mounted panels, which need a decent amount of space to spread out.
Added Roof Protection
Think of your rooftop solar system as a shield for your roof. It provides a layer of protection against rain, snow, wind, and those harmful UV rays. Plus, it can help keep your home better insulated, potentially saving you even more on energy costs.
Boost Your Home's Value
Homes with solar panels often attract higher resale values. Buyers are drawn to their energy efficiency and the modern touch they add to a property.
Disadvantages of a Roof Mount Solar System
Upfront Investment
Getting a rooftop solar system installed requires a significant upfront investment. However, you will see savings on your energy bills over time, and there might be government incentives available to help offset the initial cost.
Potential for Lower Efficiency
Roof-mounted solar systems are often less efficient than ground-mounted ones due to the challenges of aligning panels optimally with your roof's existing structure. You won't always be able to face them directly south (or north in the Southern Hemisphere). To compensate for this, you will likely need to get a few extra panels to reach your desired energy output.
Roof Space Limitations
The size and shape of your roof, along with things like air conditioning units, vents, and fire safety setbacks, will limit how many panels you can fit. If you want to expand your system later on for more power, you may not have the space.
Access Difficulties
Accessing your rooftop solar panels for cleaning and maintenance is more challenging than with ground-mounted systems. You'll need to ensure you have the right safety equipment and potentially hire a professional for these tasks. Aim for at least one good cleaning per year to remove dust and debris that can reduce your system's efficiency.
| Aspect | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Labor Costs | Requires less labor due to use of existing structures, which reduces costs. | Pros |
| Simplified Permitting | Permit process usually straightforward, involving basic compliance with local codes. | |
| Space-Saving Solution | Doesn't consume extra land, ideal for properties with limited space. | |
| Added Roof Protection | Acts as a protective layer for the roof against weather and UV damage, and improves insulation. | |
| Boost Your Home's Value | Increases property resale value through enhanced energy efficiency and modern appeal. | |
| Upfront Investment | Significant initial cost but long-term savings on energy and potential government incentives. | Cons |
| Potential for Lower Efficiency | May have alignment issues due to roof structure, potentially requiring extra panels for optimal energy. | |
| Roof Space Limitations | Limited by roof size and layout, which may restrict expansion and panel number. | |
| Access Difficulties | Maintenance and cleaning can be challenging and might require professional help. |
Should You Choose Ground Mount or Roof Mount Solar Panels?
Environmental Considerations
The area around your house can impact how well your solar panels work. If trees shade your roof a lot, ground-mounted panels might be a better fit. On the other hand, if your area frequently experiences flooding, putting panels on your roof keeps them safe from water damage.
Check Your Roof
Before installing solar panels, you need a solid roof in good shape. The solar installers will inspect it to ensure it can handle the weight of the panels.
Available Space
Your roof needs sufficient space to install solar panels easily. Too many obstructions, like vents or chimneys, might make roof installation challenging. On the other hand, ground-mounted panels require a substantial amount of clear land on your property, and this space will become dedicated solely to housing your solar panels.
Soil Type
The type of soil on your property influences the installation of ground-mounted solar panels. Rocky or hard-to-dig soil can make installation take longer, cost more, and require more effort. If that pushes you over budget, a rooftop system might be the way to go.
Your Budget
Installing solar panels is a big investment, whether you pay upfront or lease. Before deciding on the type of system, take a hard look at your finances. Ground-mounted systems generally cost more to install than rooftop ones. If your roof is in good condition, you're not planning to disconnect from the power grid, and your property is suitable, rooftop solar can save you a lot of money.
Future Plans
If you plan to go completely off-grid someday, ground-mounted solar panels offer more flexibility. Because they're on the ground, it's simpler to add more panels later. However, if you don't have those plans, a rooftop system will likely be more than enough to power your home.
Maintenance
Both rooftop and ground-mounted panels need some maintenance, like cleaning and checkups. Ground-mounted panels are easier to reach and maintain yourself. Roof-mounted panels might require a professional to help with upkeep.
What Does Mibet Offer?
With over a decade of experience manufacturing a wide range of solar PV mounting systems, Mibet offers design flexibility, aesthetic variations, and enhanced solar generation. Mibet Energy's comprehensive PV mounting solutions include rooftop, carport, fixed-tilt ground mount, and single-axis tracker options. Healthy multi-MW stock levels and a growing team enable fast and efficient customer service.
