If a solar panel system can’t be mounted on top of a roof, then the other option available is to have it installed on the ground instead, with the help of a purpose built racking system.
Most homeowners opt for a rooftop solar panel system to save space, and because the roof is the one area of the home that is typically most exposed to sunlight. However, if your roof isn’t compatible with a solar system – perhaps there is too much of a slope, too much shade, or it simply isn’t big enough to hold the number of panels you need – then you can explore the option of a ground-mount solar system, instead.
Whether you choose to have solar panels installed at ground level, or have no other choice, here are some things to consider:
What are the advantages of a ground-mounted solar panel system?
The biggest advantage is that if you are a homeowner who can’t have a rooftop system installed, you’re still able to reap all of the rewards of a solar system, such as saving money on energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
Secondly, ground-mounted panels can essentially be placed anywhere that is exposed to a lot of sunlight, and don’t require any work to be carried out on your roof, which always has the potential to cause costly damage.
They can be placed essentially anywhere, letting you choose the optimal location to generate the most electricity.
Thirdly, if a rooftop solar system isn’t installed by a professional company with plenty of experience and know-how, it could provide entry points for both moisture and pets, to get into your roof and cause all manner of problems.
Fourthly, it might sound counter-intuitive, but solar panels are actually more effective when cool, so allowing air to circulate around them, such as when they’re on the ground, means that they can gain significant airflow. Rooftop solar panel systems are invariably installed very close to the roof, providing little to no air circulation.
Lastly, should your solar panels require any routine maintenance to be carried out on them, the work is made much easier due to them being positioned at ground level.
What are the disadvantages of a ground-mounted solar system?
While it’s true that a solar panel array at ground level makes maintaining them a lot easier, it also makes them more prone to damage, and wildlife or even a runaway baseball, can leave them in need of repair.
Not only that, but solar panels at ground level will naturally attract more dust and debris, and may need to be cleaned more often.
The final disadvantage is one that might not apply to all homeowners, but will almost certainly need to be taken into account before installation: ground-mounted systems take up a lot more space.
To help you decide whether to opt for a rooftop or ground-mounted solar system, schedule an in-house consultation with a local solar panel installer. Either way, going solar is a decision you won’t regret, and the planet will thank you for it, too!
