Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: The Smart Choice for Clean Energy
When most people picture solar panels, they think of rooftops. But there’s another option gaining traction across Australia and globally: ground-mounted solar panels. These systems deliver powerful renewable energy benefits while offering flexibility that rooftops often can’t match.
What Are Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?
Ground-mounted solar panels are photovoltaic systems installed directly on the ground, rather than on a roof. Panels are secured to frames or racking systems that can be tilted to the optimal angle for sunlight.
There are two main types:
Standard ground mounts: Fixed in place with a set tilt.
Pole mounts or tracking systems: Elevated panels that can rotate or tilt to follow the sun, maximising energy production.
This makes ground-mounted systems especially appealing for properties with open land or limited roof space.
Why Choose Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?
Flexibility in Location
Unlike rooftop panels, ground-mounted systems don’t depend on roof orientation, shading, or available space. They can be placed in sun-rich areas of your property for maximum output.
Higher Efficiency
Because they’re installed at the perfect tilt and orientation, ground-mounted solar often outperforms rooftop setups. Systems with sun-tracking technology can generate 25–35% more electricity than fixed panels.
Easy Maintenance
Ground-mounted systems are accessible from the ground, making cleaning and maintenance simpler than climbing onto a roof.
Environmental Benefits of Ground-Mounted Solar
Ground-mounted solar helps accelerate the transition to clean energy. By generating renewable electricity directly on-site, these systems:
Cut carbon emissions by reducing reliance on coal and gas-fired power.
Support biodiversity when installed on marginal or unused land. Some designs even allow vegetation to grow beneath panels, supporting pollinators.
Help offset household or business electricity consumption, reducing Australia’s overall carbon footprint.
According to the International Energy Agency, every 1 MW of solar power installed prevents over 1,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions per year—making ground-mounted systems a vital part of climate action.
Stats That Show the Power of Ground-Mounted Solar
In Australia, solar PV already supplies over 15% of national electricity generation (Clean Energy Council, 2024).
Ground-mounted systems are growing fastest in regional and rural areas, where land availability makes them ideal.
Globally, ground-mounted solar farms contributed 68% of all new solar capacity in 2023, demonstrating their key role in the renewable energy boom.
A typical household ground-mount system of 6.6 kW can generate around 9,000–10,000 kWh per year, enough to power most family homes.
Final Thoughts
Ground-mounted solar panels are more than just an alternative to rooftop installations—they’re a smart, sustainable way to harness the sun’s power. With higher efficiency, easy upkeep, and major environmental benefits, they’re an excellent choice for homeowners, farmers, and businesses with land to spare.
By investing in ground-mounted solar, you’re not only lowering your electricity bills—you’re contributing to a cleaner, greener future.
