What is the difference between a roof solar panel and a ground-mounted solar panel? Which one does one prefer?
One of the initial questions that one has to make when installing a system of solar power is whether to have the panels on the roof or on the ground. Both alternatives are capable of running your household effectively, but they vary in price, installation and performance. A reason as to why this and that are better than the other in your home has been broken down.
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels
Pros:
The panels mounted in the roof allow utilizing the unused space and your yard is at your disposal. They are usually cheaper to install because the support structure is the available roof and that way it will save on material and labor costs. This usually translates to a quicker payback period. There are also fewer accidents or tampering that can be done to roof installations as they are fixed above the reach of people.
Cons:
Maintenance of roof systems is more difficult to maintain. The cleaning or repair involves the technicians climbing up and this is complicated and expensive in the long run. They also depend on the size, angle and direction of your roof which may not allow you to find the perfect tilt or direction to give you maximum sunlight. In case your roof is old or in bad condition then it may need to be repaired or replaced before installation. In addition, in case you require roof work in the future, then it would have to take out the panels and put them in place which would be inconvenient, and would be costly.
Ground-Mounted Solar Panels
Pros:
Ground-mounted systems are mounted on a separate racking system that lets you have complete control over location and angle. Such flexibility provides the ideal exposure to sunlight and increased efficiency. The airflow around ground panels is enhanced to keep them cooler, thereby enhancing performance. They also clean up easily, they maintain easily and they can be expanded easily- that is, in case you intend to expand your power supply in future.
Cons:
The greatest disadvantage is cost and space. Ground systems need additional material and labor and open land. They also take up a section of your land which otherwise would have been utilized in other ways like in gardens or leisure activities. They are a little more susceptible to interference as they can be found on the ground since the children, pets, or yard equipment might destroy them. Additional security or fencing can be required which will increase overall expenditures. The process of permitting is also more complicated as ground arrays are regarded as new structures.
Making the Right Choice
These two systems are both of superior advantages, but each system will suit your property and priorities the best. Rooftop solar is often the best and most affordable and accessible option in the event that your roof is big, strong, and receives a steady flow of sunlight. It is easier to set up, it utilizes the existing space and it has a clean integrated appearance.
But when you have a shaded roof, or one too small, or an unlucky angle--or when you have a great deal of land--then the ground-mounted solar could be the wiser choice. It provides better flexibility, ease of maintenance and capacity to expand.
Overview
Roof systems are cheaper and less space consuming whereas ground systems are most efficient and readily available. Given the condition of your roof, the availability of land and your long term plans, it is possible to select the solar set up that provides the most efficient performance and value over the next few years.
