Rooftop Solar vs. Ground-Mounted PV Systems: Which Is Right for You?

The race for a greener and cleaner environment goes on with each passing day, and nowadays, everyone is heading towards the utility of solar energy. But when the time for installation comes, everyone gets confused between two options: either to go for a rooftop system or a ground-mounted solar system. Both of these systems support the purpose of minimizing electricity bills and lessening one's carbon footprint.

Rooftop Solar vs. Ground-Mounted PV Systems

So, let us remove this confusion by giving a detailed comparison between the following two systems that will help you understand your ideal solar system requirement.

About Rooftop Solar Systems

You can set up this system on the rooftops of houses, offices, or commercial establishments. The whole establishment is kept on the roof with the help of a special racking system. It is the most common installation and is usually ideal for areas where land is very limited.

Advantages of Rooftop Solar

• As the roof is already part of your house, you do not need extra land.
• Installation-wise, it is cheaper because it does not require any additional structure or support system.
• Most appropriate for residential and commercial houses that are built to reduce electricity bills and do not suppress the aesthetic of the home.
• Also protects the roof from adverse weather conditions such as rain, heat, dust, etc.

Limitations of Rooftop Solar

• The condition of your roof matters for installation, and you need repairs and replacement in terms of any damage.
• You can only install the limited size of a solar system that your roof allows.

About Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

We know the solar system as ground-mounted when it is placed on the ground. It generally uses materials like metal frames, posts, pipes, or tubing to keep the solar systems above ground. They are mostly used on large open properties such as farms, factories, or plots.

Advantages of Ground-Mounted Solar

• This type of system can be positioned at any angle to capture the maximum sunlight and generate more power.
• Cleaning and repairing are much easier because of the ground-level setup.
• Comes with better ventilation that keeps solar systems cooler and improves performance.
• Perfect energy-saving option for industries.

Limitations of Ground-Mounted Solar

• Requires extra free and unused space for installation.
• Needs additional expenses for frames and wiring. It also requires extra costs for fencing.
• Not suitable in crowded areas.

Which System Should One Choose?

Here are some factors that you should consider to making the choice between rooftop solar and ground-mounted systems:

• Space: If you do not have any extra space, then the rooftop system is the best choice. In contrast, if you do have enough space, then go for ground-mounted.
• Budget: Rooftop solar systems mainly prove an economical option in comparison with ground-mounted systems.
• Energy Needs: If you want a large amount of energy, then going with ground-mounted systems proves beneficial.
• Aesthetics: The visual impact of both types of systems is different. If you do not want to overpower your property’s look, then go for rooftop solar.

Conclusion

Making the right choice between rooftop solar and ground-mounted PV systems is essential at the time of solar system installation. You can consider factors like available space with you, budget, energy requirements, and aesthetics at the time of selection.

Rooftop solar is perfect if you do not have extra land for solar system installation but want a simple, cost-effective energy solution. On the other hand, a ground-mounted system is selected when you have huge open spaces to produce high energy with low maintenance.

If by now you are still confused about choosing between one of the two, you may contact Zodiac Energy Limited for guidance throughout the selection process and avail yourself of the best solar system installation service. So, without waiting, power your future with clean and green energy usage.