Most people who buy solar panels install them directly on the roof.
This is often a good location as it provides excellent sun exposure.
And the roof panels do not interfere with the lawn or property.
However, you may find it impossible to install panels on your roof.
In this case, ground-mounted solar panels are completely viable, and they can effectively serve dual purposes.
Here are some creative uses you might consider.
Determination of ground mounted solar panels
When purchasing a solar array, you need to consider how you want to install your system.
Since your new energy platform is an investment, you’ll want to carefully research all the pros and cons of each of your options.
If your roof faces the Sun most of the day, the roof layout may suit you perfectly.
However, some hosts do not have this advantage.
Regardless of whether your roof blocks the sun, anchoring the panels to the ground gives you flexibility.
Additionally, ground mounted solar panels may be a safer alternative.
Consider that every electrical component in your home slightly increases the risk of fire.
A fire in your roof can spread to your home.
But one that starts in your lawn is less likely.
It can also be difficult to store equipment mounted precariously on your roof.
Whether you plan to do minor repairs yourself or hire helpers instead, walking on a sloped surface high off the ground can be dangerous.
If you expand your home or energy use in the future, you may need more energy.
It is much more difficult to add additional panels when installing on a limited surface area.
You can use all of your possessions when you put them on the ground.
Creative uses for ground-mounted solar panels
If you’re worried that your panels will interfere with how you enjoy your yard, don’t be.
There are many creative ways to integrate your power supply into your home’s amenities.
Your imagination and budget are your only limits.
Pool umbrella
Pools are great places to put arrays because they generally have access to uninterrupted sunlight.
While spending summers in the heat can be fun, direct UV exposure can be uncomfortable and dangerous.
Instead of a clumsy umbrella, use your power layout to block the Sun within a few meters of your pool.
Exercise area
Working out indoors can be boring and repetitive.
There’s something about just being outside that makes a tough workout easier.
However, high summer temperatures can make outdoor exercise between midday and early evening virtually impossible in many places.
The shaded training area blocks rain and sunlight, allowing you to freely exercise in comfort.
Add a treadmill, yoga mat, or bike to elevate your exercise routine.
Shaded plant sanctuary
Not all plants require intense, direct sunlight.
Many, especially those best suited to home gardens, thrive in shade.
If your front yard is far enough from your house that it doesn’t get enough shade, consider using your ground-mounted solar panels to create the shade you need.
Since you can always tilt your system away from the street, this setup can look nice to drivers or pedestrians.
Balcony extension
Have you ever wished you could extend your porch so more people could enjoy it?
Don’t have a porch and would like one?
While it may cost a little extra to upgrade your solar system to a serious cover, it’s worth it.
A balcony brings joy to your home and can serve as a place to gather the whole family or relax on the weekend.
Privacy block for neighbors
If your neighbors live nearby, you may not want them to follow everything you do.
Whether you’re friends or not, it can feel intrusive to know that someone nearby might be watching you and your kids while you hang out in the yard.
Solar equipment creates perfect protection from unwanted views.
Temporary garage
Whether you don’t have a garage or yours is filled with too much stuff, it’s always a good idea to protect your vehicles from rain, snow, and other inclement weather.
A temporary garage with ground mounted solar panels can seem like a complicated and expensive undertaking.
Still, compared to the cost of adding an entire new section to your home, you’re saving money.
Animal house
North American dogs evolved in frigid climates.
Consequently, most breeds become extremely uncomfortable in extreme heat.
However, other breeds have been somewhat tamed by the domestication process and may be averse to rain or snow.
The array can act as a convenient weather shield.
Because the light energy systems are angled, your pet can choose exactly how far they want to fit into your dual purpose shelter.
This layout works exceptionally well with an invisible fence and can allow you to devote your mental energy to matters other than animal care.
Are ground mounted solar panels worth it?
As with everything in life, ground systems have a few drawbacks.
For most customers, the most important thing is cost.
While installing a bracket directly on your lawn can be reasonably inexpensive, even the most affordable ground installations are more complicated and require more parts than roof arrays. Of course, more creative and elaborate projects cost more money.
The logistics of permitting and wiring your land mass can be complicated.
Depending on where you live and how far from your home you want to place your array, your plan may or may not be feasible.
Before you buy or start any construction, check that your plan meets local zoning regulations.
Using ground mounted solar panels to your advantage is a great way to support the environment while optimizing your home.
When you finish your project, you’ll feel like you’ve done something good for your family and the planet.
If you have any questions, call us today.