Solar Energy via Ground-Based Installations: A Practical Choice
For homeowners considering the switch to solar energy, understanding the differences between rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the key factors to consider when making your decision.
Space and Location
The availability of space and suitable location plays a significant role in your choice. Rooftop solar systems rely on an adequate amount of unshaded roof area with good sun exposure and a south-facing orientation. On the other hand, ground-mounted systems can be placed anywhere on the property with optimal sun exposure, making them a suitable option for homes with shaded roofs or those who prefer not to install solar panels on their roof.
System Size and Energy Needs
Roof space may limit the size of the solar system, while ground mounts allow for larger arrays that can cover 100% or more of a home’s energy needs, potentially producing surplus energy to feed back to the grid.
Site Suitability and Structural Considerations
Roofs must be structurally sound to support panels, which can restrict installations. Ground mounts require additional steel racking and foundations, typically involving higher installation complexity and cost of mounting hardware.
Accessibility and Maintenance
Ground-mounted panels are easier to access for cleaning and maintenance due to being at ground level, reducing difficulty and cost over time compared to rooftop arrays.
Permitting and Regulations
Local zoning, permitting, or homeowner association rules may restrict ground-mounted systems, especially in urban settings, limiting options to rooftop installs in many towns.
Cost Considerations
While overall prices per watt are often comparable, ground mounts incur additional racking and installation expenses. However, potential for larger arrays may improve economics via higher energy production and net-metering benefits.
Aesthetic and Property Use Preferences
Rooftop panels use otherwise unused space and can be more visually discreet. Ground-mounted arrays occupy yard space and might affect landscape use or view.
Optional Technology and Performance
Ground mounts can incorporate solar trackers that tilt panels to follow the sun for enhanced production, an option rarely feasible on roofs.
In summary, rooftop solar is often ideal where roof conditions are suitable and space is limited. Ground-mounted systems offer flexibility, scalability, ease of maintenance, and potentially higher output but with higher structural and permitting considerations. Your choice should consider physical site conditions, energy goals, local rules, and budget constraints.
It's also important to note that ground-mounted solar systems require more time for installation compared to rooftop systems due to additional factors like permits, land surveys, geotechnical reports, zoning regulations, and HOA rules. However, the efficiency of ground-mounted systems, due to their optimal positioning and exposure to sunlight, makes them an excellent choice for many homeowners.
- The selection between rooftop and ground-mounted solar systems hinges on the availability of space and a suitable location.
- Rooftop solar systems necessitate an unshaded roof area with good sun exposure, preferably south-facing, for their operation.
- In contrast, ground-mounted systems can be positioned anywhere on the property with optimal sun exposure, accommodating houses with shaded roofs or those opting against roof installations.
- Roof space limitations may dictate the size of rooftop solar systems, whereas ground mounts support larger solar arrays to meet, or exceed, a home's energy needs.
- Roofs must be structurally sound to support solar panels, restricting installations in some cases, while ground mounts require additional steel racking and foundations, involving additional installation complexity and costs.
- Ground-mounted panels are more accessible for cleaning and maintenance, as they are at ground level, reducing maintenance costs and difficulties compared to rooftop arrays.
- Local zoning, permitting, or homeowner association rules may constrain ground-mounted systems, especially in urban settings, limiting options to rooftop installs in many towns.
- While prices per watt can be comparable, ground mounts incur additional racking and installation expenses; however, potential for larger arrays can result in improved economics via higher energy production and net-metering benefits.
- Ground mounts can incorporate solar trackers that adjust panels to track the sun for increased energy production, an option rarely feasible on roofs, thereby influencing the aesthetic appeal and property use preferences of homeowners.
