Ground mounted solar systems are a key infrastructure in solar projects. They provide reliable support for photovoltaic (PV) modules and ensure stability and efficiency over the long term. With proper design and installation, these systems adapt to many terrains, including flat land, slopes, and even agricultural land. They unlock both space efficiency and energy value for solar projects.
This guide covers the basics of ground-mounted solar systems. It introduces the main types, foundation options, and advantages. Whether you are a developer, investor, or simply curious about solar, you will find clear insights into how ground mounts drive the clean energy transition.
What Are Ground-Mounted Solar Systems?
A ground-mounted solar system is a metal support structure that fixes PV panels on open land. Often called the “skeleton” of a solar power station, it holds the panels at the best tilt angle to capture sunlight and maximize output.
Beyond efficiency, the system also provides strength and durability. It withstands decades of wind, snow, corrosion, and temperature changes. A typical system includes posts, beams, and rails made of high-strength, corrosion-resistant materials. These are anchored with reliable foundations such as concrete or ground screws.
A ground mount is more than a frame. It is an engineering solution that combines structural design, material science, and environmental adaptability. Its quality directly affects performance, returns, and service life.
Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
1. Fixed-Tilt Ground Mounts
The most common and cost-effective option. Fixed mounts use a preset tilt angle. With no moving parts, they are simple, stable, and low-maintenance.
Aluminum mounts are lightweight and highly resistant to corrosion, ideal for environments where durability is critical, though at a higher cost.
Steel mounts, especially those made from zinc-aluminum-magnesium (ZAM) coated steel, are the mainstream choice for utility-scale projects. Compared to traditional galvanized steel, ZAM steel offers superior corrosion resistance, edge protection, and long service life, while maintaining high strength and excellent cost performance.
2. Slope-Adaptive Ground Mounts
Built for hilly or uneven land. The system follows the slope instead of leveling the site, which reduces earthwork and cost. It also lowers environmental impact. However, precise measurement and custom design are needed to handle slope stability, drainage, and shading.
3. Vertical Ground Mounts
An innovative design that integrates PV modules into fences or barriers. In Europe, it is already used in gardens and community fences. By combining “one fence, two functions,” it saves land and enables distributed power generation. The system usually has lower height and tilt angles, which may slightly reduce output. Still, it makes excellent use of space and adds value where land is limited.
4. Agrivoltaic Ground Mounts
These systems combine solar with farming. High-clearance mounts allow tractors to pass under the panels while crops grow below. Strong and corrosion-resistant materials are essential in farm environments. Proper planning ensures crops still get the right sunlight while generating power above.
For comprehensive solutions and detailed product options, explore SOEASY Solar ground mounting solution.
Foundation Options for Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
The foundation is the backbone of a ground-mounted system. It secures the structure against wind, snow, and other environmental forces. The right choice depends on soil type, climate, and project requirements. Below are the most common options:
1. Concrete Foundations
This is a traditional and highly reliable option. Contractors excavate, reinforce with steel, and pour concrete on-site. The result is excellent strength and resistance to both compression and uplift. Concrete foundations work well in most soil conditions. However, they take longer to build, require curing, and may cause more disturbance to the site.
2. Helical Pile Foundations
Helical piles are steel posts with screw-like blades that are driven into the ground. Installation is fast, requires no excavation, and causes minimal disruption to soil. This method is ideal for areas with strict environmental rules or frozen ground. The challenge comes with rocky or gravel-heavy sites, where piles are harder to install.
3. Driven Pile Foundations
In this method, steel or precast piles are hammered into the ground with impact or vibration equipment. It offers high efficiency and strong load capacity in softer soils. The main drawbacks are noise, vibration, and the risk of pile damage in hard or rocky terrain.
4. Ballast Block Foundations
Also called precast block or counterweight foundations, these use heavy concrete blocks placed on leveled ground. They rely on weight instead of anchoring, so the soil remains undisturbed. Ballast foundations are quick to install and well-suited for leased land or temporary projects. Their limits include weaker wind resistance and higher demands on ground bearing capacity.
5. Steel Structure Foundations
This option uses steel beams or tubes fixed with anchor bolts, sometimes combined with small concrete pedestals. Steel foundations are lightweight, fast to assemble, and highly adaptable to uneven or rocky terrain. The trade-off is higher anti-corrosion requirements and greater long-term maintenance.
Advantages of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems
1. Flexible Project Location
Ground-mounted systems can be installed on unused or underutilized land, such as wastelands, slopes, or saline soil. They are not limited by building structures, avoiding roof constraints and complex property issues. This flexibility allows large-scale projects to expand easily.
2. Excellent Scalability
Modular design enables simple and cost-effective expansion. Projects can start small and grow to hundreds of megawatts. This approach adapts to varying project sizes and investment levels.
3. Improved Heat Dissipation
Ground-mounted arrays have open space around them, allowing heat to escape efficiently. Cooler modules operate more efficiently, producing higher energy output. Good airflow also reduces hotspots and extends panel lifespan.
4. Convenient Operation and Maintenance
Ample space between rows allows easy access for cleaning, inspections, and repairs. Vehicles and personnel can reach all areas without difficulty. This convenience lowers O&M costs and improves reliability.
5. High Potential for Integrated Applications
Ground mounts can combine with agriculture, aquaculture, or infrastructure such as parking canopies and fences. “PV+” solutions maximize land value and offer additional economic and ecological benefits.
6. Strong Structural Stability and Weather Resistance
High-strength steel and deep foundations ensure arrays withstand wind, snow, and other extreme weather. Careful engineering and testing maintain long-term stability and safe operation.
Your Trusted Solar Project Partner
If you are considering a ground-mounted solar system for your project, contact us for a comprehensive site evaluation and benefit analysis. SOEASY Solar provides expert advice and detailed consultation to deliver the optimal PV system solution that fits your needs and budget. If a ground-mounted system does not suit your needs, we also offer a variety of alternative solutions to help you make a practical, and future-proof decision.
Learn about our solar ground mounting projects：Solar Ground Mounting – soeasypv.com
English 
Post by 
