Time to read: 5 minutes
Date: February 2, 2023
What is ground mounted solar? Can solar panels can be mounted on the ground? Absolutely. While many Texans think of shiny solar panels on rooftops whenever they hear the phrase “solar powered” there are other options when it comes to installing a solar power system. Being that groundhog day is here, we thought it would be the perfect time to explore ground mounted solar panels!
What is ground mounted solar?
Like the name suggests, ground mounted solar is a solar array that is installed on the ground. These solar panels are placed in open areas where they are exposed to plenty of sunlight. These installations are great examples of agrivoltaics, which is a blend of agriculture and solar power that benefits the plants and/or animals around them. These panels can usually be mounted in a couple of ways.
- Standard ground mount: Installed on a type of frame and can function as a type of canopy or overhanging structure.
- Pole mounted systems: These solar power systems are supported by a type of pole or mast.
In many cases, Texans that install this type of solar power system have an open area of land that gets tons of sunlight. If not, then clearing a space that isn’t currently being used is a great idea for this type of solar array.
Benefits of a ground mounted solar power system
A ground mounted solar power system is a great option for farms, ranches, and homes with open space. If you have some open space on your property and don’t want to install solar panels on your roof, then ground mounted solar is an incredible option for you.
Ground mounted solar can be combined with other things on your property
The space that you ground mount solar panels can be used as shade for plants. Some Texans that work as beekeepers have even started combining their hives with ground mounted solar (check out our article on them here).
Higher possible sun exposure than roof mounted solar panels
While roof mounted solar panels are designed to maximize their sun exposure, ground mounted solar arrays can catch more sunlight. Not all rooftops have the ideal slope that solar panels need to capture all of the sunlight during the day. This is simply because not every roof is designed exactly the same way. The slope of a roof can vary while the ground is fairly uniform in terms of slope. When a ground mounted solar array is designed, the slope can be taken into account to angle the panels to get maximum sun exposure. So long as they are designed the right way, ground mounted solar arrays can create more electricity.
This isn’t to say that roof mounted solar isn’t impressive. Quite the contrary! Roof mounted solar panels are incredible when it comes to use of space to create reliable, stable, clean energy. In many instances, especially when Texans don’t have extra land for a solar array, installing solar panels on a separate building like a barn or guest house is a great way to get the benefits that solar offers.
Farmland and ranches
Farmers have started to combine their farmland with solar panels to benefit what they raise on their land. Even cattle ranchers have been going solar by ground mounting their panels in a way that allows their cattle to graze under the panels and relax in the shade they provide. This combination of solar power and agriculture saves money, generates clean energy, and can reduce electric bills.
Beekeepers are buzzing about ground mounted solar power
Beekeepers have been able to combine their hives with solar power systems. Their beehives are placed under or close to their solar arrays. They then plant flowers and plants that the bees are able to pollinate and use to create honey. Even if you aren’t a beekeeper yourself, installing a ground mounted solar power system can give you some big benefits.
Ground mounted solar panels are easier to clear if they get covered with snow or seasonal pollen
While you normally don’t need to worry about things covering and blocking your panels, some parts of Texas get snowfall. This is especially true with arctic storms. Snow can safely and easily be cleared off of ground mounted solar panels. During cedar season, you panels can become coated with a thick yellow layer of pollen. While it won’t stop your solar panels from generating electricity, it can lower their efficiency. In both cases, clearing snow or pollen off of a solar array on the ground is far easier than rooftop solar panels.
Send Your Electric Bills Out to Pasture
Whether you want to ground mount your solar panels or install them on your roof, IES Texas Solar has you covered. Switching to a solar power system can give you energy stability and help the grid stay stable. Solar power is also a long term investment that can save you money on your electricity bills. You can also install backup batteries or a home standby generator for total energy independence! What are you waiting for? Ground your electric bills and energy concerns by switching to solar today!
We have made it our mission to be a source of truth in renewable energy. Our team believes that accurate solar and backup power education is the foundation for making the best decision when choosing a system that fits your needs.
If you are considering installing a backup generator or switching to solar for your home or business, reach out to us by going to our website, iestxsolar.com, or by giving us a call at (855) 447-6527.
