Ground-mounted solar panels are a popular choice for both residential and commercial solar energy systems, particularly when roof space is limited or unsuitable for installation. Unlike rooftop systems, ground-mounted solar arrays are installed directly on the ground using specialized mounting structures. These structures ensure the panels are securely positioned at the optimal tilt angle to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.
1. Key Components of Ground-Mounted Solar Panel Structures
A ground-mounted solar system consists of several critical components that work together to support and position the solar panels. The primary components of the structure include:
A. Mounting Frames
The mounting frame is the backbone of any ground-mounted solar system. It provides the structural support needed to hold the solar panels in place.
- Material: Mounting frames are typically made from aluminum, steel, or galvanized steel, offering durability and resistance to the elements.
- Functionality: The frames are designed to hold the panels at a fixed or adjustable tilt angle, allowing for maximum exposure to sunlight.
SIC Solar offers robust mounting frames that can be customized based on the specific needs of your installation. Whether you’re working with a small residential project or a large-scale commercial system, our mounting frames ensure that the panels are secure and stable.
B. Ground Screws or Concrete Foundations
The foundation of a ground-mounted solar system is critical to the overall stability of the installation. Two common foundation types used in solar mounting systems are ground screws and concrete foundations.
- Ground Screws: These are long, screw-like devices that are drilled into the ground to anchor the mounting system securely. Ground screws are particularly useful for sites with unstable soil or where traditional concrete foundations may be difficult to implement.
- Benefits: Ground screws are faster to install, require no excavation, and are less invasive, making them an environmentally friendly option. Additionally, they can be removed or relocated if necessary.
- Concrete Foundations: For more permanent installations, concrete foundations may be used to support the structure. Concrete bases are typically poured into pre-dug holes or formwork to create a solid anchor point for the mounting frame.
SIC Solar’s ground screw solutions are designed for easy installation and high stability, making them an excellent choice for ground-mounted solar arrays in various soil conditions.
C. Rails and Crossbars
Rails and crossbars connect the mounting frames and support the solar panels in their proper position. They are essential for maintaining the correct spacing between the panels and for securing them to the frame.
- Rails: These long metal components run horizontally across the mounting frame, providing a platform to which solar panels are attached.
- Crossbars: Crossbars run perpendicular to the rails and help stabilize the entire system.
These rails and crossbars need to be durable, weather-resistant, and capable of handling the weight of the panels while ensuring they remain in place under various weather conditions.
D. Tilt Mechanism (for Adjustable Systems)
In many ground-mounted solar installations, the angle at which the panels are tilted can be adjusted to capture the optimal amount of sunlight. This is especially useful in areas with significant seasonal variation in sun position.
- Fixed Tilt: Some systems are designed with a fixed tilt angle, suitable for areas where the sun’s path remains relatively constant throughout the year.
- Adjustable Tilt: For greater flexibility, adjustable systems allow the panels to be tilted at different angles depending on the time of year, increasing energy efficiency. These systems typically feature manual or automatic tracking that adjusts the tilt angle as needed.
SIC Solar provides both fixed and adjustable tilt systems, depending on the specific requirements of your installation. Our adjustable tilt mechanisms are designed for easy setup and long-term reliability.
2. Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
Ground-mounted solar systems can be categorized based on their configuration and the way they are anchored to the ground. These include:
A. Fixed Tilt Systems
Fixed tilt systems are the most straightforward type of ground-mounted solar installation. As the name suggests, the panels are mounted at a fixed angle, which is often set to optimize solar exposure based on the location’s latitude.
- Advantages: These systems are typically simpler and cheaper to install, as they don’t require the complexity of tracking or adjustable mechanisms.
- Ideal for: Areas where seasonal sun angle changes are minimal or for large installations with consistent solar access.
B. Tracking Systems
Tracking systems are more advanced and allow the panels to follow the sun’s movement throughout the day. These systems can be single-axis or dual-axis:
- Single-Axis Trackers: These systems move the panels along one axis (usually north to south) to follow the sun’s path from east to west.
- Dual-Axis Trackers: These allow the panels to move both vertically and horizontally, following the sun’s position both throughout the day and throughout the seasons.
- Advantages: Tracking systems can increase the energy production of a solar array by up to 25% or more, depending on the system and location.
- Ideal for: Larger commercial or utility-scale solar farms where maximizing energy production is critical.
SIC Solar provides customizable mounting solutions that support both fixed tilt and tracking systems, making it easy to choose the right option based on your energy needs and installation requirements.
3. Benefits of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
Ground-mounted solar systems offer several key benefits over rooftop installations:
A. More Flexibility in Panel Placement
One of the major advantages of ground-mounted systems is the ability to place solar panels anywhere on your property. Whether you have a large open space or an area with more sunlight exposure, ground-mounted panels give you the flexibility to choose the best location for energy generation.
B. Better Efficiency
Ground-mounted systems can be installed at the optimal tilt angle for the local climate and solar conditions, maximizing energy production. Additionally, ground-mounted panels tend to experience less shading from nearby trees or buildings compared to rooftop systems.
C. Easier Maintenance and Repairs
Unlike rooftop systems, ground-mounted solar panels are easier to access for maintenance or repairs. This can significantly reduce maintenance time and costs, ensuring your system remains operational for many years.
D. No Roof Penetration
Since ground-mounted systems are installed on the ground, they don’t require any penetration of your roof, reducing the risk of leaks or roof damage.
