If you have land you’re not currently using around your home, farm, or business, you might be wondering whether it could do more than just sit there. Could it generate electricity? Could it help lower your bills?
For many property owners, the answer is yes.
Ground-mounted solar panels can be an excellent alternative to rooftop solar panels, especially if your roof isn’t suitable or you have enough open land to install a larger solar array. You just need enough space unshaded by buildings and trees, and a suitable foundation for installation.
Our solar specialists have installed hundreds of solar systems for businesses and homeowners to help reduce energy costs and lower their environmental impact. We’ve created this guide to help you explore the key factors that determine whether a ground-mounted solar installation is the right solution for your property.
For tailored advice about your own property, get in touch with Going Green Renewables.
What is a ground-mounted solar system?
Ground-mounted (or free-standing) solar panels are a type of solar system that does exactly what the name suggests. Instead of sitting on your roof, the panels are mounted on a frame directly on the ground.
This opens up a lot of flexibility. You’re no longer stuck with whatever angle and direction your roof happens to face. You can choose where the solar panels sit and the angle they face to catch the most sun all year round.
That’s why ground-mounted systems are so popular on:
- Large gardens
- Rural properties
- Farms
- Commercial premises
- Any patch of land that’s not being used
How much space do you need for a ground-mounted solar array?
As a guide, a typical domestic system of around 10 to 12 solar panels usually needs between 20 and 50 square metres of usable land. Larger homes or commercial solar installations that require much more electricity to run will naturally need more space.
It’s not just about fitting the panels in, either. The installation also needs to account for the support structures and space around the system for safe maintenance access. Plus, with multiple solar panel installations, it’s important to leave enough space between the rows so one row doesn’t shade the next.
Why is optimal sun exposure so important?
Solar panels generate electricity whenever there’s daylight, but they perform best when they have plenty of direct sunlight. That’s why, before we recommend ground-based solar panels to anyone, we look at how open and unshaded the land actually is.
One of the advantages of ground-mounted systems is that you aren’t restricted by your existing roof. Instead, you have the space and surface to be able to position the panels at the optimal angle and direction to maximise sun exposure and energy generation. Even making small adjustments can improve your system’s energy output over the years.
Are ground-mounted panels suitable for agricultural land?
Yes. Ground-mounted solar panels are a natural fit for agricultural land because they let farmers put underused fields to work without touching valuable roof space on barns or outbuildings.
Some projects may require planning permission, particularly if they’re larger or located within a conservation area or near a World Heritage Site. So if you’re thinking of installing solar panels on a farm, it’s worth having a conversation to see what’s possible for your land.
Can tracking systems improve solar performance?
Some ground-mounted solar systems use tracking devices that follow the sun throughout the day, continually adjusting the position of the panels to maximise energy production. Many people see around a 25% increase in production.
They aren’t right for every property, though. Trackers add cost and moving parts, which add another thing to think about when budgeting for your new system. It’s about finding the option that offers the best value for your property, and in most cases, a well-placed free-standing solar array can provide just as much solar power as any roof-mounted system.
What should you consider before installing ground-mounted solar panels?
When our solar panel installers visit a property, they always assess the area for solar suitability, from property boundaries and available space to ground conditions and possible energy savings. It’s worth running through the checklist yourself to get a good sense of what’s possible before you even pick up the phone.
Land topography
Is your ground level enough for installation? The flatter your land is, the easier the installation is. Gentle slopes are fine, but very steep or uneven ground usually means extra groundwork and support structures, which increase installation costs.
Soil conditions
In addition to being level, the ground needs to support the panels’ mounting structures for years to come. Rocky ground, very soft soil, or unstable land doesn’t necessarily rule out ground-mounted solar panels, but they do require a different installation method.
Drainage and flood history
Not something you’d ever think about with rooftop panels. Standing water isn’t ideal for any outdoor electrical equipment. If your land floods or holds water, mention this during your site survey so it can be properly assessed.
Distance to your property
The closer your solar array is to your property, the less cabling and groundwork are required. This keeps the installation simpler. With this in mind, we’d usually recommend planning the installation within 30 meters of your property.
Orientation
South-facing land provides the greatest energy output, though east- and west-facing sites can still perform very well depending on your energy usage.
Nearby trees and buildings
Look for anything that could cast shade over the panels, particularly during the middle of the day when solar generation is high. Installing ground-mounted solar panels may involve removing healthy trees or nearby plants if they block too much sunlight.
Planning requirements
Most domestic ground-mounted systems don’t need planning permission. But if the solar installation takes up more than 9 square metres, is more than 4 metres high, is a second installation, or sits within a conservation area or other protected location, then you will need to get permission to proceed.
Access
Not only do you need enough space to house the system, but you need enough space around it for you (or us) to access it for regular cleaning and maintenance.
Why is maintenance access important for ground-mounted solar panels?
Ground-mounted solar panels are at higher risk of damage compared to rooftop solar panels because they are on open land. While this does create a risk of damage from debris, animals, or a fallen tree, garden solar panels are easier to access for maintenance and repairs.
It’s still important to make sure there’s plenty of space around the system to access it.
This makes it far easier to:
- Clean the panels
- Carry out inspections
- Perform repairs
- Replace components
- Monitor performance
Can a ground-mounted solar array help reduce energy costs?
Yes. Just like rooftop solar panels, a ground system allows you to generate your own renewable electricity and save money on expensive grid energy prices.
The exact savings depend on the size of your solar system, how much electricity you use, and when you use it. If you pair your solar installation with battery storage, you can also store excess energy generated during the day and use it later, helping reduce reliance on rising energy prices even further.
For businesses, larger ground-mounted systems can provide even greater energy independence, often generating a significant portion of daily electricity use straight from their own land.
Is a ground-mounted solar system better than rooftop solar?
These are two very different installation processes, and we’d usually recommend them for different situations, so the best setup really depends on your property’s suitability and what you want to achieve from your solar array.
Explore the key benefits of each setup.
| Benefits of ground-mounted solar PV systems | Benefits of rooftop solar PV systems |
| Can be angled and oriented for maximum sunlight | Require less land |
| Easier maintenance access | Have lower installation costs |
| Larger system capacity if you have enough land | Avoid some planning considerations |
| Provide greater design flexibility | Maximise unused roof space |
| Offer a more discreet appearance | |
| Provide a quicker installation process in many cases |
Looking for ground-mounted solar panel installation advice? Speak to Going Green Renewables
Every property is different, which is why we never recommend a solar system without first understanding your home or business. We’ll talk you through the options, assess your property’s suitability, and design a system that works for your energy needs.
With more than 13 years’ experience installing solar PV systems for homeowners and businesses across Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, and the surrounding areas, we’re here to give expert advice.
Call our friendly team today on 01252 560 587 or request a free, no-obligation quote to find out whether ground-mounted solar panels are the right choice for your property.
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