Ground-mounted systems

Ground-mounted solar panels can be an attractive alternative to a rooftop system, especially for property owners with plenty of sunny yard space.

Pros and cons of ground mounts

What advantages do ground-mounted systems offer over traditional rooftop installations? And are there any downsides to be aware of?

Benefits of ground mounted solar panels:

You can optimize the tilt and location of the system for maximum sun exposure and solar electricity production
They’re easy to service (no ladders required!)
If you require any cleaning or maintenance, ground mounted systems are very accessible

Disadvantages of ground mounted solar panels:

They require a lot of land
Because they are at the ground level, they tend to be more prone to damage from wildlife and/or people
They are more expensive because of addition labor, equipment, and permitting requirements

Top three things you need to know about ground-mounted solar panel systems

Common questions

Can I get quotes on EnergySage for ground-mounted systems?

Yes! Simply go to your Project Preference section of your Marketplace and add a note in the “Other details” textbox to let installers know. If you’ve already received rooftop quotes from installers, we recommend reaching out to them via our Message Center to request a quote edit.

Is my quote for a rooftop installation, or ground mount?

In your “Full Quote” view, you’ll find a section labeled “Panel mount location”. This will tell you whether it’s a rooftop, ground mount, or carport quote.

Should I install trackers with my ground-mounted system?

Trackers allow your solar array to follow the sun’s position throughout the day, therefore maximizing your solar electricity production. That said, trackers cost more money and also require more maintenance than fixed solar panel systems because of the moving parts.