Key Takeaways
- Ground-mount solar systems vary significantly in cost, with some options requiring more upfront investment.
- Systems that require fewer mobilizations and lighter equipment can drastically reduce installation times and labor costs.
- Some ground-mount systems are more adaptable to challenging terrains.
- Systems that avoid concrete and heavy machinery—like Nuance Energy’s Osprey PowerRACK®—tend to have a lower carbon footprint.
- Faster installation and lower costs can result in a quicker return on investment, especially for large-scale solar projects.
IronRidge vs Nuance Energy Mounted Solar Options: Cost & Benefits
IronRidge offers reliable and established solutions, while at Nuance Energy, we bring a fresh approach with our innovative Earth Anchor Foundation Technology.
Both options are viable, but our system differs significantly in areas like cost-effectiveness, installation speed, and environmental impact.
This comparison breaks down the strengths and challenges of both systems, offering insights for solar contractors, EPCs (engineering procurement and construction firms), and distributors to help you make informed decisions—whether for residential projects or large-scale commercial installations.
| Nuance Energy is your superior solution for Ground Mount solar. Our patented foundation technology, in the Osprey PowerRACK®, allows for rapid installation using only handheld tools, significantly reducing both time and costs compared to traditional racking systems.
This cutting-edge technology works for residential and commercial installations, and Nuance Energy empowers solar installers to take back control of their installation schedules, control project COGS, gain market share, increase the speed of install, and reduce costs and labor. In contrast, a traditional ground mount is much more unpredictable, slower, and costly. Find out how Nuance Energy can accelerate your solar projects with the Osprey PowerRACK® line, and boost your profitability. Contact us today to discuss our innovative ground-mount solutions. |
Concrete pouring for solar ground mounts adds to installation expenses.
Cost Comparison
IronRidge and Nuance Energy both provide reliable solutions, but our costs differ substantially:
| Aspect | IronRidge Ground Mount System | Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK® |
| Foundation Type | Pile-driven or concrete footings | Earth Anchor Foundation |
| Geotechnical Studies Required | Yes | No |
| Use of Concrete | Yes | No |
| Installation Tools | Heavy machinery | Handheld tools |
| Labor Costs | Higher
(specialized labor required) |
Lower
(< $0.12/watt) |
| Material Costs | Higher
(geotech reports, concrete) |
Lower
(no geotech or concrete) |
| Total Savings
(2MW Project) |
Not specified | $145,000 |
IronRidge Ground Mount System
IronRidge’s ground mount solution—while robust and widely used—tends to come with higher upfront costs.
The system typically has pile-driven foundations or concrete footings, which demand geotechnical studies, multiple trips to the site, and specialized labor to handle heavy equipment.
These factors increase both labor and material costs, especially for larger-scale projects.
While it is widely appreciated for its reliability, the use of heavy machinery and the need for extensive preparation work, such as geotechnical reports, can drive up overall expenses. The total cost per watt for this type of system tends to be higher because of these additional factors.
Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK®
Our Osprey PowerRACK® is a more cost-effective solution.
With our innovative Earth Anchor Foundation Technology, we eliminate the need for both concrete and geotechnical studies. Installation can be completed using only handheld tools, allowing contractors to use a lower-cost labor force.
For a 2MW commercial project, our system has been shown to save up to $144,640 in labor and material costs, and bring down the total labor cost for installation to less than $0.12 per watt.
The Osprey PowerRack® system can be installed quickly and efficiently using minimal labor and only handheld tools.
Installation Time & Ease
| Aspect | IronRidge Ground Mount System | Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK® |
| Foundation Type | Pile-driven or concrete footings | Earth Anchor Foundation |
| Use of Concrete | Yes | No |
| Crew Size | Larger crew | 3-4 person crew |
| Installation Tools | Heavy machinery | Handheld tools |
| Installation Time
(2MW Project) |
Varies | < 60 minutes |
| Man Hours Saved | None | 416 man hours |
| Total Time Saved | None | 52 days |
IronRidge Ground Mount System
IronRidge’s ground-mount system is dependable, but it involves a more complex installation process. The use of pile-driven foundations or concrete footings adds to the installation time due to concrete curing and coordination of heavy equipment, among other factors.
For larger projects, this can add days—or even weeks to the timeline—depending on the terrain, size of the installation, and required foundation work.
Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK®
At Nuance Energy, we engineered the Osprey PowerRACK® to minimize installation complexity – and reduce total installation times. Our rack can be installed using handheld tools only.
For a 2MW project, our system saves up to 416 man hours and can be installed quickly with a small crew, reducing the overall timeline by as much as 52 days.
Our system uses handheld tools to install the earth anchors, which means low-cost labor and no need for heavy equipment. This makes our system far more efficient and accessible to installers in different regions. — Nuance Energy
Technical Features & Flexibility
IronRidge Ground Mount System
IronRidge’s system, while reliable, may require significant ground preparation in certain environments. It’s effective for standard commercial projects but may require additional engineering and customization for complex terrains.
Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK®
Our Earth Anchor Foundation Technology allows it to adapt to a wide variety of terrain types, including sites with soft soil or uneven ground.
The Osprey PowerRACK® supports multiple panel configurations and is scalable for both small residential and large commercial projects. Its modular design also allows for the system to be easily relocated – which adds flexibility for temporary installations.
Environmental Impact
IronRidge Ground Mount System
The use of concrete footings in IronRidge’s system contributes to a higher carbon footprint. Additionally, the need for heavy machinery to install pile-driven foundations increases fuel consumption and disturbs the landscape.
Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK®
Our system avoids concrete and heavy equipment, reducing the overall carbon footprint. The Osprey PowerRACK® is 100% removable and transportable—perfect for environmentally sensitive areas. Our Earth Anchor Foundation uses natural soil and sediment—leaving a minimal environmental impact.
ROI & Long-Term Value
IronRidge Ground Mount System
IronRidge’s ground-mount system has higher upfront costs due to concrete foundations and specialized labor, which can lengthen the time it takes to achieve a return on investment (ROI). The longer installation times also delay energy production and potential savings.
Nuance Energy Osprey PowerRACK®
Our system provides faster ROI due to its lower costs and quicker deployment. For a 2MW commercial project, savings of up to $144,640 and reduced installation times translate into faster returns and greater profitability over the system’s lifespan.
Harnessing the power of the sun with Osprey PowerRACK®—a reliable solution for solar energy.
Nuance Energy: A Smarter Choice for the Long-Run
IronRidge’s ground-mount system involves higher costs and longer installation times due to its reliance on concrete and heavy machinery. For projects where cost is less of a concern, IronRidge is a good choice.
Our Osprey PowerRACK® can be a more cost-effective, flexible, and environmentally friendly alternative. With faster installation, lower labor costs, and reduced environmental impact, our solution provides a better ROI—especially for larger or time-sensitive projects.
For solar contractors, EPCs, and distributors looking to optimize both costs and performance, the Osprey PowerRACK® stands out as the smarter long-term investment.
Experience the Nuance Energy difference. Contact us for a personalized quotation and learn how the Osprey PowerRACK® provides unmatched value for your solar installations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is the Typical Installation Time for Ground-Mount Solar Systems?
Installation time can vary depending on the system. Simpler, lightweight systems—like the Osprey PowerRACK®—may take as little as a few hours, while complex systems involving concrete foundations may take days or weeks.
What Are the Main Costs Involved in Installing a Ground-Mount System?
The primary costs include labor, materials, and any site preparation, such as geotechnical studies and foundation work. Systems that require concrete or heavy machinery tend to be more expensive.
How Do Ground-Mount Solar Systems Affect the Environment?
The environmental impact of a ground-mount system largely depends on whether it requires concrete, heavy machinery, and site excavation. Our Osprey PowerRACK® minimizes environmental disruption by using soil anchors and handheld tools instead.
Is IronRidge Suitable for Complex or Uneven Terrains?
IronRidge’s system is best suited for stable, standard terrains, and may require additional engineering for complex or uneven terrains.
How Much Time Can the Osprey PowerRACK® Save on Large Projects?
For a 2MW commercial project, the Osprey PowerRACK® can save up to 52 days and 416 man-hours compared to traditional installation methods.
