Powering your business from the Ground Up!

A ground mounted PV system generally costs a little more on a $/watt basis than a roof mount system because there is more steel involved in the racking system (with posts driven into the soil) and they typically require a fence to enclose the array. While they require more racking than a roof-mounted system, they typically produce more energy because they can be installed with a more optimal tilt angle. This could lead to very similar economics to a roof mount system, and maybe even better depending on the circumstances and system size.

To capture the maximum amount of sunlight, most ground-mounted solar systems use a metal frame connected to the earth to hold the panels at a fixed angle. Other ground-mounted systems may use pole mounts that can automatically tilt the solar panels to capture the optimal amount of sunshine, daily and seasonally.

GROUND MOUNT OPTION 1

Fixed Tilt Ground Mount:

Fixed-tilt systems are a reliable and cost-effective solution for mid-to-large-scale commercial solar projects. These systems are typically constructed with either single-post or dual-post designs, which streamline installation and reduce assembly time, especially for expansive facilities. By minimizing the number of posts required, fixed-tilt systems deliver significant savings in both material and labor costs. Additionally, various frame options allow for flexible module arrangements, ensuring an optimized and economical configuration tailored to the project’s requirements.

Fixed-tilt ground mounts are typically angled at 20-25 degrees to capture optimal sunlight and maximize energy production throughout the year. With no moving parts, these systems offer exceptional durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and cost advantages, making them an ideal choice for projects under 2 MW or where simplicity and reliability are paramount.

GROUND MOUNT OPTION 2

Single-Axis Tracker:

Single-axis trackers feature a single axis of rotation, typically horizontal and oriented in a north-south direction. These systems are designed to follow the sun’s movement across the sky throughout the day, optimizing the angle at which solar panels receive sunlight. By maintaining an ideal position relative to the sun, single-axis trackers significantly boost energy production compared to fixed-tilt systems. However, they come with the added complexity of moving parts, which require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Due to their cost-effectiveness and scalability, single-axis trackers are widely used in larger commercial and utility-scale solar projects. They are less suitable for smaller commercial applications, where simpler, stationary systems are often more practical.

GROUND MOUNT OPTION 3

Dual-Axis Tracker:

Dual-axis trackers enable solar panels to move along two axes, aligned both north-south and east-west. This advanced tracking capability allows panels to follow the sun’s daily path across the sky while also adjusting for seasonal changes in the sun’s height. By maintaining an optimal angle throughout the year, dual-axis trackers maximize energy collection and enhance solar production efficiency. While their performance benefits are significant, they involve higher upfront costs and increased maintenance due to the complexity of their moving parts. As a result, dual-axis trackers are primarily used in specialized applications or projects where maximizing energy yield is critical, such as utility-scale installations or research facilities. They are less commonly used in smaller commercial projects due to these factors.