Path-Q Solar

Would a ground-mounted system make sense if my roof is structurally sound but heavily shaded?

Answer

It may make sense if the ground site has substantially better sun exposure, sufficient space, suitable soil, acceptable access, and a reasonable connection path. A ground mount should be compared with a smaller shaded roof system using site-specific production and total installed-cost estimates.

Key points

  • Ground mounting can avoid roof shade and simplify some roof-maintenance issues.
  • The comparison must include foundations, grading, trenching, fencing or security, vegetation management, and land use.
  • A ground system may allow better orientation or tilt but can require more space and site work.
  • The best option may be a hybrid design using only the least-shaded roof areas.

What it depends on

  • Ground-site solar exposure and shading
  • Available land, soil, drainage, and access
  • Distance to the electrical connection
  • Roof production, ground-system cost, and desired capacity

Risks and trade-offs

  • Ground systems can have higher site-preparation and maintenance costs.
  • They may be more exposed to damage, vegetation, animals, or security concerns.
  • A ground location may introduce property, neighbor, land-use, or environmental constraints.

Information you may need

  • Annual shade and production analysis for roof and ground options
  • Ground dimensions, topography, soil, and access information
  • Electrical interconnection path and site-work estimate
  • Comparative quotes and maintenance assumptions

Your next step

What to do next

Request comparable roof, ground, and hybrid designs showing annual production, site work, total cost, maintenance, and the assumptions behind each option.

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