Ground Mounted Solar Panels: Complete Guide for Homeowners

Not every home is ideal for rooftop solar. If your roof is too old, heavily shaded, poorly oriented, or made from difficult materials like slate or tile, installing solar panels on your roof might not be feasible. For homeowners with adequate yard space, ground-mounted solar panels offer a practical alternative that can actually outperform rooftop systems.

Ground-mounted solar installations cost about 20-25% more than rooftop systems due to additional equipment and foundation work. However, they provide key advantages: optimal panel positioning for maximum sun exposure, easier maintenance access, and the flexibility to expand your system as energy needs grow. For the right property, these benefits can justify the higher upfront investment.

This guide covers everything you need to know about ground-mounted solar panels, from costs and system types to installation requirements and how they compare to traditional rooftop systems.

Key Takeaways

• Average cost: $60,200 before incentives for a typical residential system (17.5 kW)
• Net cost: $42,140 after the 30% federal solar tax credit
• Price premium: 20-25% more expensive than comparable rooftop installations
• Two main types: Standard ground mounts (fixed angle) and pole mounts (often with tracking)
• Best for: Properties with unsuitable roofs, high energy demands, or plans for future expansion
• Energy production: Can produce 5-10% more electricity than rooftop systems due to optimal positioning

What Are Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?

Ground-mounted solar panels are solar arrays installed on metal frameworks anchored directly into the ground rather than attached to your roof. These systems use the same solar panels and inverters as rooftop installations but require specialized racking and foundation systems to secure them to your property.

The panels typically sit anywhere from a few inches to several feet above the ground, depending on your system design and local snow levels. They're connected to your home's electrical system through underground conduit that runs from the array to your main electrical panel.

Unlike rooftop systems, ground-mounted arrays aren't constrained by your roof's size, orientation, or structural limitations. This freedom allows installers to position panels at the ideal angle and direction for your location, maximizing energy production year-round.

Why Choose Ground-Mounted Solar?

Maximize Energy Production

Ground-mounted systems can be positioned at the optimal tilt angle and orientation for your geographic location, regardless of which way your house faces. While rooftop systems must work with your existing roof angle and direction, ground mounts can be precisely angled to capture maximum sunlight throughout the year.

For homes with east, west, or north-facing roofs, this positioning advantage can increase energy production by 5-10% compared to a suboptimal rooftop installation. Systems with tracking capabilities can boost production even further, by 25% or more.

Easy Maintenance Access

Cleaning solar panels, removing snow, and performing routine inspections becomes significantly simpler when panels are at ground level. You won't need to climb ladders or hire professionals for basic maintenance tasks. In heavy snow regions, ground-mounted panels are much easier to clear, ensuring consistent winter energy production.

The improved airflow around ground-mounted panels also helps them run cooler than rooftop installations. Since solar panels produce slightly more electricity at cooler temperatures, this natural cooling can contribute to better overall system performance.

Meet High Energy Demands

If your home's electricity consumption requires a large solar system that won't fit on your roof, ground mounting solves the space problem. You're only limited by your available land rather than your roof's square footage.

This makes ground-mounted systems particularly appealing for homeowners planning to add electric vehicles, install large battery storage systems, or expand their homes in the future. The system can scale with your needs without the constraints of roof size.

Future Expansion Capability

Adding capacity to a ground-mounted system is straightforward—you simply install additional panels and racking on adjacent land. Expanding a rooftop system often isn't possible if you've already used all suitable roof space. This scalability makes ground mounts a smart choice if you anticipate growing energy needs over the 25-30 year lifespan of your system.

How Much Do Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Cost?

Based on recent market data, the average ground-mounted residential solar system costs approximately $60,200 before any incentives. This assumes a system size of 17.5 kW—the typical size for homeowners who choose ground mounting—at an average price of $3.44 per watt.

After applying the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the net cost drops to about $42,140. State and local incentives may reduce costs further depending on your location.

The 20-25% price premium over rooftop systems comes from several factors:

• Foundation work: Concrete footings, ground screws, or helical piles ($1,200-$2,500)
• Additional racking: More extensive metal framing and support structures
• Trenching: Excavation and conduit for underground wiring ($1,500-$2,000)
• Labor: More complex installation process requiring specialized equipment

Here's how costs compare:

While the upfront investment is higher, ground-mounted systems can generate more electricity over their lifetime, potentially offsetting the price premium through increased energy savings.

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

Standard Ground Mounts

Standard ground mounts use metal framing anchored into the ground to support your solar array at a fixed angle. These are the most common and cost-effective ground mounting option.

Key features:

• Fixed tilt angle optimized for your latitude
• Some models allow manual seasonal angle adjustments (2-4 times per year)
• Most affordable ground mounting option
• Simpler installation and lower maintenance requirements
• Work well in areas with stable weather conditions

Best for: Homeowners prioritizing lower costs while still gaining the orientation benefits of ground mounting.

Pole-Mounted Systems

Pole-mounted systems elevate solar panels higher off the ground using a single central pole or multiple poles. These installations often incorporate tracking systems that automatically adjust panel position throughout the day.

Key features:

• Takes up less ground surface area than standard mounts
• Panels elevated 8-12 feet above ground
• Better for snowy regions (easier snow shedding)
• Often paired with tracking technology
• More complex installation and higher equipment costs

Best for: Properties with limited ground space or those seeking maximum energy production through tracking.

Solar Tracking Systems

Tracking systems use motorized mechanisms to keep panels positioned toward the sun as it moves across the sky. Two types exist:

Single-axis trackers rotate panels from east to west throughout the day, following the sun's daily path. These systems can increase energy production by 25-35% compared to fixed-tilt systems.

Dual-axis trackers adjust both daily (east-west) and seasonally (adjusting tilt angle), capturing the maximum possible sunlight year-round. Production gains can reach 35-45%, but equipment and maintenance costs are significantly higher.

Trade-off to consider: Tracking systems add $5,000-$15,000 to installation costs and require electricity to operate the motors. The production boost must justify both the upfront expense and ongoing operational costs.

Comparison Table

When Ground-Mounted Solar Makes Sense

Ground-mounted solar isn't right for every property. Consider this option if you meet several of these criteria:

Your Roof Is Unsuitable

Ground mounting becomes the obvious choice when your roof presents significant challenges:

• Age: Less than 10-15 years of remaining lifespan (you'd need to remove panels for roof replacement)
• Orientation: Faces primarily east, west, or north with no south-facing sections
• Shading: Heavy shade from trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings
• Material: Slate, clay tile, or wood shake (expensive or risky to penetrate)
• Structure: Cannot support panel weight without costly reinforcement
• Condition: Needs repairs or has existing damage

You Need a Large System

If your electricity consumption requires a 10+ kW system and your roof can only accommodate 5-7 kW, ground mounting lets you install the capacity you need. This is common for:

• Homes with electric heating and cooling
• Properties planning to add electric vehicles
• Off-grid systems requiring large battery banks
• Energy-intensive home businesses or workshops

You Have Adequate Space

Ground-mounted systems require at least 500 square feet of sunny, unobstructed land for a typical 6 kW system. Larger systems need proportionally more space. The land should be relatively flat, receive full sun for most of the day, and not be needed for other purposes.

Easy Maintenance Is a Priority

If you're uncomfortable working on your roof, concerned about fall risks, or physically unable to access your roof safely, ground-level access to your solar panels provides significant peace of mind. This is especially valuable in snowy climates where panels need regular clearing.

Future Expansion Is Likely

If you anticipate increased electricity needs over the next decade—whether from home additions, electric vehicles, switching from gas to electric appliances, or simply lifestyle changes—ground mounting makes expansion straightforward. You can add panels without the constraints of available roof space.

Ground-Mounted vs. Rooftop Solar: Which Is Better?

The right choice depends on your specific property and circumstances. Here's how they compare:

Bottom line: If your roof works well for solar and can fit your needed system size, rooftop installation usually makes more financial sense. If your roof is problematic or you need more capacity than it can hold, ground mounting is worth the premium.

Key Considerations Before Installing

Space Requirements

Budget at least 500-600 square feet for a 6 kW system, or roughly 100 square feet per kilowatt. The area should receive unobstructed sunlight for most of the day, particularly between 9 AM and 3 PM.

Soil Conditions and Drainage

Rocky, sandy, or waterlogged soil increases foundation costs. Your installer will assess soil conditions to determine the appropriate foundation type—ground screws work in most soils, but challenging conditions may require helical piles or concrete piers, adding $1,500-$3,000 to costs.

Poor drainage can cause long-term stability issues. Avoid low-lying areas where water pools after rain.

Local Regulations and Permits

Check local building codes, zoning restrictions, and HOA rules before proceeding:

• Setback requirements: Minimum distance from property lines (often 5-20 feet)
• Height restrictions: Maximum allowed system height
• Zoning regulations: Some areas restrict ground-mounted structures
• HOA rules: May prohibit visible ground arrays or require architectural approval

Visual Impact and Security

Ground-mounted systems are more visible than rooftop installations. Consider:

• Property aesthetics: How panels affect curb appeal and outdoor living spaces
• Neighbor relations: Whether visible panels might concern adjacent properties
• Security: Accessibility to potential vandalism or theft (fencing may be advisable)

Long-Term Commitment

Solar panels typically last 25-30 years. Ensure you're comfortable dedicating that ground space long-term. The area beneath panels can be used for some purposes (like groundcover or gravel), but won't be suitable for gardens, patios, or structures.

Is Ground-Mounted Solar Right for You?

Ground-mounted solar panels offer a powerful alternative when rooftop installation isn't optimal. While they cost 20-25% more upfront than rooftop systems, the ability to position panels perfectly, maintain them easily, and expand capacity as needed can make them the smarter long-term investment.

This option makes most sense if you have:

• At least 500 square feet of sunny, unused land
• An unsuitable roof (age, orientation, shading, or material challenges)
• High energy needs that exceed your roof's capacity
• Plans to increase electricity consumption in the future
• Budget flexibility to invest in optimal system performance

Before moving forward, get quotes from multiple local solar installers who can assess your specific property conditions, soil type, and local regulations. A professional site evaluation will determine the most appropriate mounting type, optimal placement, and realistic cost expectations for your situation.

With the right property conditions and professional installation, ground-mounted solar can deliver clean, reliable electricity for decades while providing easier maintenance access and expansion flexibility that rooftop systems can't match.

FAQs

1. "Are ground mounted solar panels worth it?"

Why it works: This is the core decision question. The guide addresses ROI, when they make sense, and cost-benefit analysis throughout.

Answer location in guide:

• "Is Ground-Mounted Solar Right for You?" section
• Cost analysis section comparing 20-25% premium vs. benefits
• Conclusion weighing investment against advantages

2. "How much do ground-mounted solar panels cost?"

Why it works: This is likely the #1 reader question. The guide has detailed, specific pricing.

Answer location in guide:

• Dedicated "How Much Do Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Cost?" section
• $60,200 before incentives, $42,140 after tax credit
• Complete cost comparison table
• Foundation cost breakdowns

3. "Is ground-mounted solar cheaper than roof?"

Why it works: Direct comparison question that the guide explicitly answers (NO, 20-25% more expensive).

Answer location in guide:

• Cost section clearly states "20-25% price premium"
• Side-by-side cost comparison table
• Explanation of why it costs more (foundation, trenching, labor)

4. "What are the disadvantages of ground-mounted solar panels?"

Why it works: Addresses objections/concerns. Guide covers all the downsides honestly.

Answer location in guide:

• "Key Considerations Before Installing" section
• Space requirements (500+ sq ft needed)
• Higher upfront costs
• Visual impact, security concerns
• Local regulations and restrictions
• Soil/drainage challenges

5. "How long do ground-mounted panels last?"

Why it works: Longevity question for investment justification. Guide mentions this multiple times.

Answer location in guide:

• "Long-Term Commitment" mentions 25-30 years
• Introduction states "deliver clean, reliable electricity for decades"
• Future expansion section references 25-30 year lifespan