SOLAR BLOG

Key Takeaways

• Ground-mounted solar panels provide greater flexibility in panel placement and angle to increase energy production.
• Roof-mounted systems generally cost less to install due to existing infrastructure support.
• Maintenance for ground-mounted systems is often easier, but they require more space.
• Choosing the right system depends on space availability, budget, and energy needs.
• Nuance Energy helps reduce installation costs and time for ground-mount solar with its patented Osprey PowerRack™ solar racking system.

Ground Mount vs Roof Panels: ROI Comparison

When To Choose Ground-Mount Solar

1. Large Land Availability: If you have ample open land, such as farmland or industrial areas, ground-mounted systems are an excellent choice. They can be positioned optimally to maximize sunlight exposure while avoiding obstructions from buildings and trees. 
2. High Energy Demand: For properties with significant energy consumption, ground-mounted systems can accommodate larger installations without the constraints of roof space. This scalability also allows for future expansion as energy needs grow. 
3. Optimal Sunlight Exposure: If your location has minimal shading and can support adjustable mounts, ground-mounted systems can be tilted and oriented for maximum solar capture throughout the year. 
4. Easier Maintenance: Ground-mounted systems allow for easy access for cleaning and repairs, which reduces long-term maintenance costs and downtime. 
5. Variable Terrain: If your property has uneven or sloped terrain, ground-mounted systems can be installed flexibly to adapt to these conditions.

When To Choose Roof-Mounted Solar

Roof-mounted solar helps you make the most out of the limited space you have and increase the property value

1. Limited Land Space: In urban or densely populated areas where land is scarce, roof-mounted systems use existing structures efficiently without requiring additional land. 
2. Suitable Roof Condition: If your roof is structurally sound and oriented favorably (ideally south-facing), roof-mounted panels can be a cost-effective solution that integrates seamlessly with the building’s architecture. 
3. Aesthetic Considerations: For those concerned about visual impact, roof-mounted systems are less intrusive compared to ground mounts and can increase the property’s aesthetic appeal. 
4. Lower Installation Costs: If budget constraints are a primary concern, roof-mounted systems generally have lower initial costs due to reduced material and labor requirements compared to ground installations. 
5. Avoiding Ground-Level Obstacles: In areas where ground-level obstacles (like trees or other buildings) may cause shading issues, roof-mounted panels can often avoid these problems by being installed at a higher elevation.

How To Increase The ROI Of Ground-Mount And Roof-Mounted Solar Panels

1. Choose Quality Equipment: Higher-efficiency panels generate more electricity, which leads to greater savings over time. 
2. Maximize Sunlight Exposure: Make sure that solar panels are installed in locations with optimal sunlight exposure. This includes avoiding shading from trees or buildings and positioning panels at the correct angle. 
3. Use Solar Tracking Systems: For ground-mounted systems, consider installing solar trackers that adjust the panel orientation throughout the day to follow the sun. 
4. Improve Energy Independence: Adding battery storage allows owners to store excess energy generated during peak sunlight hours for use during non-sunny periods. 
5. Routine Cleaning and Inspections: Dust and debris can significantly reduce efficiency. So, keeping solar panels clean and regularly checking for maintenance issues improves their performance. 
6. Feed Excess Energy Back to the Grid: If available in your area, net metering allows you to sell excess energy generated back to the grid for additional income or credits on future electricity bills.

Read More: Types of Ground-Mount Solar Systems

Nuance Energy: The Best Solution For Ground-Mount Solar Racking System

Choose Osprey PowerRack™ for ground-mount solar projects and save on your installation cost

We at Nuance Energy stand out as the best provider of ground-mounted solar racking systems for commercial installation because of our innovative Osprey PowerRack™. Here’s why:

1. Lowest Labor Costs: A small crew (3-4 people) can complete a 10kW installation in about an hour with minimal training. This efficiency can lead to savings of up to $145,000 on a standard 2MW installation compared to traditional methods. 
2. No Heavy Machinery Required: Unlike other ground mounts that necessitate expensive heavy equipment, the Osprey PowerRack™ can be installed using only handheld tools.
   
   “Traditional ground mounts require two mobilizations, one for inspection and one to pour concrete. Our system only requires handheld tools, saving both time and labor costs.” — Nuance Energy 
3. Innovative Foundation Technology: Our patented earth anchor foundation technology allows for quick and easy installation without the need for costly excavations or geotechnical reports. 
4. Minimal Site Preparation: Our system requires little site grading or preparation to further reduce installation time and costs and minimize disturbance to the surrounding environment. 
5. Rapid Deployment: With Osprey PowerRack™, a 2MW installation can be operational in just 16 days versus the typical 60+ days required for other methods. 
6. Modular Design: Its modular design allows for flexibility and scalability, which makes it suitable for various applications from residential to large commercial projects. 
7. Engineered for Resilience: The Osprey PowerRack™ is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including wind loads up to 140 mph and snow loads up to 60 psf.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does a solar panel system last?

Solar panel systems are designed to last for 25 to 30 years or more. Over time, their efficiency may decrease slightly, but they will continue to generate electricity throughout their lifespan. Regular maintenance and monitoring can help your system operate at peak efficiency for as long as possible.

Are there financial incentives for installing solar panels?

Yes, both ground-mounted and roof-mounted solar installations are eligible for various financial incentives, including federal tax credits (such as the Solar Investment Tax Credit), state rebates, and local incentives that can significantly reduce upfront costs.

What are the typical maintenance requirements?

Solar panel systems require minimal maintenance, primarily involving regular cleaning to remove dust and debris that can reduce efficiency. It’s also important to schedule periodic inspections to check for any potential issues, such as loose connections or shading from nearby trees. 

Ground-mounted systems are easier to maintain due to their accessibility, while roof-mounted systems might require professional assistance for maintenance tasks.

Which system provides a better return on investment?

The ROI depends on several factors including installation costs, energy production efficiency, maintenance expenses, and local electricity rates. 

Generally, ground-mounted systems may offer higher energy yields but come with higher initial costs. In contrast, roof-mounted systems usually have lower installation costs but may produce slightly less energy due to orientation limitations.

What is Nuance Energy?

Nuance Energy is a leading provider of innovative solar racking solutions, specializing in ground-mounted solar systems. We are known for our patented Osprey PowerRack™, which is designed to simplify the installation process while reducing costs and improving efficiency. 

We aim to empower solar installers and project developers by providing advanced technology that boosts the speed and affordability of solar installations.