We have broken a record in rooftop solar panel installations this year. Almost on every commercial site, they have become so common. They are the new trend, even for people who have the unused land space. But there is something we are forgetting in this trend. The ground mounted solar panels. With rooftop solar , you get what you get. You can’t change the direction. They remain stationary as you place them. But what if you had a control panel that allowed you to dial in the perfect, performance-maximizing angle? What if you could orient your system to absolute perfection, free from any architectural compromises? This is what you get with ground mounted PV panels.
Let EcoGreen Australia solar companies Melbourne show you how ground mounted solar panels are beneficial for you!
Pros of Ground Mounted Solar Panels
- The Unrestricted Placement
Rooftop solar panels are bound by so many aspects, such as the contours, shape, and shading of buildings. On the other hand, ground mounted PV panels give you the luxury of choice. It means they can be positioned anywhere on a property with maximum exposure to the sun’s path, whether it is flat, sloped, or contoured land. With this freedom, panels can be tilted and spaced to get the maximum sunlight throughout the day and across seasons.
- They Are Highly Scalable
Ground mounted solar panels are not limited. Yes, while rooftop solar has roof space limitations, it provides you with limited scalability. On the other hand, ground mounted solar panels are highly scalable. Whether scaling from a few kilowatts serving a small operation or megawatt-scale farms powering industrial complexes, expanding a ground system remains an easier process with ground mounted PV panels. Additional rows or panels can be integrated alongside existing arrays without structural constraints or roof reinforcements.
- They Have Greater Efficiency
If you want greater efficiency, then choose ground mounted solar panels. They have superior natural cooling because they have ample airflow underneath. These panels operate at lower temperatures than rooftop systems, which tend to trap heat. Since photovoltaic panel efficiency decreases as temperature rises, better cooling means improved performance and longevity of the solar modules. It’s a natural design feature that is necessary for higher energy production.
- They Are Simple to Maintain
Accessibility is an advantage for ground mounted PV panels. Unlike rooftop installations, where cleaning, inspection, or repairs often require costly equipment or disrupt business operations, ground systems are simple to maintain. They have greater reachablity and can be cleaned using standard facilities, such as ladders or light machinery. This easy access reduces downtime, increases maintenance workflows, and cuts service costs.
- Make Proper Use of Unused Land
If you have unused land, then the ground mounted solar panels are beneficial for your commercial venture. They can turn your vacant or less productive land into energy-generating space. This means, for commercial properties and businesses, unused plots, buffer zones, or parking lot peripheries can all become green energy zones, generate electricity and reduce energy costs.
- They Have Better Structural Integrity
We, Aussies, know that Australia has quite a diverse and tough climate, and hence, we need panels that have better structural integrity. Since ground mounted PV panels are made with galvanised steel or aluminium frames and have more secure foundations, such as concrete piers or ground screws, they can endure high winds, heavy rains, and extreme temperatures easily. This durability means businesses and commercial facilities can be sure of decades of reliable, high-performing solar generation with minimal risk of structural degradation.
- They Have Greater Flexibility
Ground mounted solar panels have greater flexibility when it comes to easy integration. It means they can easily be integrated with other advanced technologies, such as battery storage units, electric vehicle charging stations, or even solar-powered irrigation systems. Their layout and scale make the interconnection with microgrid infrastructure or virtual power plants smoother than your usual rooftop panels. This flexibility makes them adaptable and perfect for advancements in renewable energy strategies.
The Setup Cost For Ground Mounted Solar Panels
Let’s see how much it costs you! Usually, in Melbourne, installation costs for ground mounted solar panels are a bit higher per watt than in Victoria. This is due to urban land constraints, higher site preparation, and other permits or environmental obligations. You must remember that dense urban development requires more careful site planning. This means increased labour and compliance costs.
On the other hand, regional and rural areas across Victoria benefit from more accessible land, fewer regulatory hurdles, and lower physical site preparation demands. Therefore, in Victoria, they become more cost-effective for large-scale solar projects. But let EcoGreen Australia tell you that there are lucrative federal rebates that can lower your upfront costs. Hence, the ground mounted PV panels have become more affordable than ever, even in Melbourne.
| System Size | Average Cost Range (AUD) | Cost per Watt (AUD) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 kW | $18,000-$22,000 | $1.80-$2.20 | Smaller-scale commercial ventures with limited land |
| 50 kW | $80,000-$110,000 | $1.60-$2.20 | Medium business sites, some site prep required |
| 100 kW | $150,000-$220,000 | $1.50-$2.20 | Large commercial facilities, more optimized design |
For Victoria
| System Size | Average Cost Range (AUD) | Cost per Watt (AUD) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 kW | $16,000-$20,000 | $1.60-$2.00 | Simple installation on rural lands and sites |
| 50 kW | $75,000-$105,000 | $1.50-$2.10 | Easier access and less restrictive zoning |
| 100 kW | $140,000-$210,000 | $1.40-$2.00 | Larger, optimized installations with fewer urban constraints |
The Considerations For Design and Installation
If you have opted for ground mounted solar panels, then you should remember a few important things. As we all know, the first requirement to launch a ground-mounted solar project is the understand the geotechnical details, as your architectural finesse will decide the proper workings of your ground mounted PV panels. Design and installation are the very first process that begins with site analysis. This means your solar panel installer will assess the soil composition, slope, and drainage patterns to ensure proper installation of the solar panels. You must understand that these aspects of assessment will influence foundation choice. For an efficient solar energy system, you need to ensure that the ground is good for stability and causes minimal disturbance.
Follow The Standards
Commercial ground mounted solar panels should follow the necessary regulatory compliance. They should be according to Australian standards AS/NZS 1170.2. They should ensure that the mounting systems can withstand local wind speeds and seismic activity. The ground mounted panels should be aligned between 10° and 35° tilt to capture Australia’s intense sunshine. A pro tip from EcoGreen Australia: Do not forget to add strong clamps and fasteners, as they secure panels to prevent movement under wind loads or weather extremes.
| Specifications | Details | Standards |
|---|---|---|
| Panel Size | Approx. 1.7m x 1.0m, 300W-500W output | IEC 61215, IEC 61730 |
| Tilt Angle | 10° to 35°, site-specific optimisation | AS/NZS 1170.2 (Structural integrity) |
| Mounting Material | Galvanised steel or anodised aluminium | Corrosion resistant for 25+ years |
| Foundations | Concrete piers or ground screws per site | Engineered for local soil and weather |
| Wind Resistance | Designed for regional wind categories | AS/NZS 1170.2 compliant |
| Electrical Standards | Earthing, wiring, lightning protection | AS/NZS 3000, AS/NZS 5033 |
| Maintenance Access | 300 to 600mm walkways between rows | To ensure ease of cleaning and repairs |
EcoGreen Australia Makes it Easier!
Want to install ground mounted solar panels for your commercial needs? We can help you with it. Whether you want to claim rebates or want an assessment, we make it all easier for you. We help you choose the best system for your needs that can withstand local conditions and generate efficient renewable power!
FAQs
Ground mounted solar panels are photovoltaic panels installed directly on the ground instead of rooftops. They offer greater flexibility in placement and can be positioned for optimal sunlight exposure.
Yes. Ground mounted systems often run more efficiently because they stay naturally cooler and can be angled precisely toward the sun.
Costs vary based on location, land preparation, and system size. Installation can be higher than rooftop solar due to site preparation and regulatory needs, but federal rebates can significantly reduce upfront costs.
Critical factors include soil condition, slope, drainage, and local weather. Proper site analysis ensures structural stability and long-term performance.
Yes. Ground mounted panels are easier and safer to clean, inspect, and service, which reduces downtime and avoids disruption to operations.
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