What’s a Ground-Mounted Solar System? Explore Cost, Benefits, Types, and Disadvantages

Ground-mounted solar refers to a photovoltaic solar power plant that’s installed on open land areas, instead of a rooftop. The ground-mounted solar power plants use the photovoltaic effect to convert sunlight into electricity. The primary types of ground-mount solar installations include on-grid solar systems, off-grid solar systems, and hybrid solar systems. 

Besides the three primary classifications into on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid, ground-mounted solar structures can also be classified into the following types:

• By how they’re installed: These include standard ground-rack systems and pole-mounted systems. 
• By how they move: These are fixed-tilt systems and ground-mounted solar structures with single-axis solar trackers or dual-axis trackers. 

Although ground-mounted solar panels can produce slightly more solar electricity than rooftop solar because solar trackers are mostly used in ground-mounts, it’s still on-grid rooftop solar panel systems for homes and housing societies that are more popular. The main reasons that make rooftop solar more popular include: 

• Subsidy benefits on rooftop solar: While rooftop on-grid solar systems for residential use are eligible for a subsidy under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, ground-mount solar installations are not eligible for this subsidy.
• Less space requirement: Unlike ground-mounted solar, which requires large open land areas for installation, rooftop solar can be easily mounted on unused roof space. 

Furthermore, ground-mounted solar systems can be up to 20% more expensive than rooftop solar systems. Therefore, ground-mount solar installations are more popular for utility-scale solar power plants instead of solar energy systems for homes, housing societies, and commercial complexes. 

In this blog, we will explain what a ground-mounted solar system is, how it works, its types, pros, cons, and cost. We will also explain why rooftop solar is better for homes, housing societies, and commercial complexes when compared to ground-mounted solar. 

TL;DR Summary Box: Why Are Ground-Mounted Solar Panels More Expensive?

Ground-mounted solar costs up to 20% more than rooftop solar systems because you’re building everything on land, not a roof that already exists. Here are the multiple reasons that make ground-mounted solar panels more expensive:

• You need to clear and level the land, and sometimes fix drainage.
• You have to put in strong foundations, like piles or concrete, to hold the panels.
• Ground racks use more steel and parts than roof mounts.
• You dig trenches and run longer cables to reach the inverter and the grid.
• You build fencing and access paths, and sometimes add security cameras.
• Big ground-mounted solar plants may need transformers.
• You must control weeds so they don’t shade the panels.
• If you add trackers, you pay for the motors and extra upkeep.

All this adds time, labor, and materials; hence, ground-mount solar installation is up to 20% costlier than rooftop solar, depending on the site.

Here are the main topics covered in this blog in detail:

*Please note: The cost of installing ground-mounted systems listed above is indicative, and not fixed. We’ve added 20% on top of the cost of installing SolarSquare’s on-grid rooftop 6ft Blue variant to calculate the estimated cost for ground-mounted systems. The actual cost for installing ground-mounted solar can be significantly higher than the given range. SolarSquare does not offer ground-mounted solar installations. We install on-grid rooftop solar for housing societies, homes, and commercial complexes.

What is Ground-Mounted Solar and How Does it Work?

A ground-mounted solar system is a photovoltaic device that makes use of solar panels installed on metal frameworks or poles, anchored to the ground surface, to generate electricity using solar radiation. 

Unlike rooftop installations, these systems can be erected anywhere on a property with enough space and sunlight exposure. The mounting structure raises the solar panels above ground level and, at the same time, maintains optimal tilt angles for maximum solar energy capture. 

Although ground-mount solar installations generate slightly more power than rooftop solar systems, they’re costlier and harder to maintain, especially if you add solar trackers that are movable, as they require added maintenance. 

What Are the Main Components of a Ground-Mounted Solar Structure?

Ground-mount solar installations require several essential components working together to transform sunlight into direct current (DC). The primary structure includes the mounting rails, foundation anchors, and electrical connections.

Let’s check out all essential components of a ground-mounted solar structure and their specific roles:

• Mounting rails: Aluminum or steel frameworks that support panel arrays.
• Foundation anchors: Concrete piers, driven piles, or helical foundations based on soil conditions.
• Solar panels: High-efficiency photovoltaic modules suitable for the Indian climate.
• Inverters: String or micro-inverters with an MPPT algorithm to convert DC to AC electricity.
• Electrical conduits: Weather-resistant wiring systems for monsoon protection.
• Grounding equipment: Safety systems ensuring proper electrical grounding to protect against arcs and electric shocks.
• Solar trackers (optional): These trackers can move solar panels to ensure they remain perpendicular to the sun throughout the day, so maximum output is generated.

How Does a Ground-Mounted Solar System Work?

Ground-mounted solar systems work just like rooftop solar systems, putting the photovoltaic effect to use to convert sunlight into direct current (DC). The ground-mounted solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it to DC output. The DC output is taken to a solar inverter that transforms it to alternating current (AC) output. 

Let’s check out how a ground-mounted solar power plant works in simple steps:

• Step 1 – Ground-mounted solar panels absorb sunlight: Solar photovoltaic cells in solar panels are made of doped semiconductor material (usually silicon) that absorbs sunlight made up of tiny energy packets called photons.
• Step 2 – Photons transfer their energy to electrons: Energized electrons leave their place, leaving behind a positively charged hole. 
• Step 3 – Electron-hole pair is generated: Every photon that knocks loose an electron results in the formation of an electron-hole pair.
• Step 4 – The built-in electric field at the p-n junction separates electrons and holes: This field pushes the electrons and holes in opposite directions. 
• Step 5 – Electrons flow in one direction: The unidirectional flow of electrons is direct current (DC).
• Step 6 – The DC output flows into the solar inverter: The solar inverter converts direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC). 
• Step 7 – Excess energy transfer: In on-grid solar systems, the bidirectional meter transfers any excess current to the grid. In off-grid solar systems, any excess energy is used to charge the lithium battery bank that can be used at night or during power outages to keep appliances running. In hybrid solar systems, excess energy first charges the batteries, and if there’s still anything left, it’s sent to the utility grid through net metering. 

What Are the Types of a Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plant?

Types of ground-mounted solar systems vary based on their mounting methods, tracking capabilities, and grid connectivity and storage options. 

• Based on mounting methods: These include standard ground-rack systems and pole-mounted systems. 
• Based on tracking capabilities: These are fixed-tilt systems and ground-mounted solar structures with single-axis solar trackers or dual-axis trackers. 
• Based on grid connectivity and storage: These include on-grid solar systems, off-grid solar systems, and hybrid solar systems.

Let’s explore all types of ground-mount solar installations in detail:

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Power Systems Based on Mounting Methods

These are of two types, standard ground-rack systems and pole-mounted systems. They primarily differ in their structural approach to supporting panels above ground level. 

• Standard ground-rack systems: These systems utilize multiple foundation points distributed across the installation area, with horizontal racking structures supporting panel arrays at low heights. The distributed foundation approach provides excellent stability for large-scale installations.
• Pole-mounted systems: These systems use single or multiple vertical poles as primary support structures, raising panels to greater heights. This approach maximizes available ground space beneath the installation.

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Systems Based on Tracking Capabilities

These are fixed-tilt systems and ground-mounted solar structures with single-axis solar trackers or dual-axis trackers. Panels in the fixed ones don’t move. On the other hand, solar trackers move solar panels so they’re perpendicular to the sun throughout the day, maximizing the output.

• Fixed-tilt systems: These ground-mounted solar systems maintain a constant panel angle throughout the year. They offer simplicity, reliability, and minimal maintenance requirements.
• Single-axis tracking systems: These systems rotate panels along one axis, typically following the sun’s east-west movement throughout the day. They provide substantial energy increases while maintaining manageable complexity levels.
• Dual-axis tracking systems: These systems adjust panel orientation along both horizontal and vertical axes, maintaining optimal sun-facing angles throughout all seasons. They maximize energy production but require sophisticated control systems and regular maintenance.

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Structures Based on Grid Connectivity and Energy Storage

These are of three main types: on-grid, off-grid, and hybrid systems. The main differences are based on system components and functionality during grid outages.

• On-grid ground-mounted solar systems: These systems connect directly to the utility grid without a lithium battery storage, sending excess solar energy to the grid through net metering.
• Off-grid ground-mounted solar power plants: These systems operate independently from the utility grid using a lithium battery storage for a continuous power supply. 
• Hybrid ground-mounted solar systems: These systems combine grid connectivity with a lithium battery bank for storage, offering both net metering benefits and backup power capabilities.  

How Much Does a Ground-Mounted Solar System Cost?

The cost of installing a ground-mounted solar system ranges between ~Rs. 2.16 lakh* to ~Rs. 2.40 lakh* for a 2 kW ground-mounted solar system and ~Rs. 6.96 lakh* to ~Rs. 7.68 lakh* for a 10 kW ground-mounted PV system.

*Please note: The cost of installing ground-mounted systems listed above is indicative, and not fixed. We’ve added 20% on top of the cost of installing SolarSquare’s on-grid rooftop 6-feet blue variant to calculate the estimated cost for ground-mounted systems. The actual cost for installing ground-mounted solar can be significantly higher than the given range. SolarSquare does not offer ground-mounted solar installations. We install on-grid rooftop solar for housing societies, homes, and commercial complexes.

Even if you consider higher-capacity solar systems, ground-mounted solar panels are up to 20% more expensive than rooftop solar systems of the same capacity. Let’s give you a cost comparison for added clarity: 

*Please note: The cost of rooftop on-grid solar systems listed above is for housing societies, and is indicative as of 8th September 2025 for SolarSquare’s Blue 4-8ft variant. The final rooftop solar system installation cost in India depends on your DISCOM charges, product variant opted for, panel type, inverter type, mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, roof height, number of floors in your society, etc. Additionally, SolarSquare does not install ground-mounted solar systems. The prices for ground-mount solar installations mentioned above are calculated by adding 20% on top of the cost of installing SolarSquare’s Blue on-grid rooftop 4-8ft variant for housing societies. 

Is There a Subsidy for Ground-Mounted Solar Structures for Homes?

The Indian government does not provide any subsidy under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana to homeowners or housing societies installing ground-mounted solar systems. 

Even the PM-KUSUM yojana’s subsidy is provided to farmers installing off-grid solar water pumps, and not to homeowners, housing societies, or industries installing ground-mounted solar systems.

Simply put, as a homeowner or housing society, you won’t receive any subsidy for installing ground-mounted solar panels.

Rooftop vs Ground-Mount Solar Installations: Which is Better for Homes, and Why?

Although they generate slightly more electricity than rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar systems are not widely used for residential and commercial installations in India. They’re usually preferred only for utility-scale solar power plants. 

The main reason why commercial rooftop systems are more popular than ground-mounted systems is that rooftop systems are less pricey and simpler to maintain. The same is true for residential solar installations. Rooftop solar is more widely used in homes and housing societies as well because not only is it 20% cheaper than ground-mounted solar panels, but the Indian government also offers a subsidy to homeowners and housing societies installing on-grid rooftop solar systems. 

Here’s a head-on comparison between the ground-mounted and rooftop solar systems in India: 

Cost of Installing Rooftop On-Grid Solar vs Solar Savings in 25 Years

Here’s a tabulated snapshot of the cost of installing an on-grid rooftop solar panel system at homes in a city like Nagpur vs the solar savings the system offers in 25 years:

*Please note: The above-mentioned solar panel price is indicative as of 8th September 2025 for the SolarSquare Blue 6ft variant. The final cost of installing an on-grid rooftop solar panel system at home depends on your DISCOM charges, product variant opted for, panel type, inverter type, mounting structure height, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, roof height, etc. Prices are subject to change. Additionally, while calculating savings, we have considered the annual tariff escalation at 3% and the annual degradation at 1%. The actual final savings from solar panel installation depend on the types of solar panels you’ve installed and their efficiency, intensity of sunlight your rooftop receives, orientation of the panels and tilt angle, the pollution level and weather conditions in your city, the temperature, shadow on the roof, impact of dirt/dust, and how well you maintain your panels after installation.

You can use SolarSquare’s free solar rooftop calculator to get an estimate of the solar savings from an on-grid solar system in your city. 

What Are the Advantages of Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants?

Ground-mounted solar panels are slightly more efficient than rooftop systems due to superior positioning. Plus, it’s easier to install solar trackers in ground-mount solar installations, which further enhances energy production.

Let’s check out the major operational advantages of ground-mounted solar power plants:

• Optimal sun tracking: Freedom to orient solar panels perfectly toward the sun’s path using solar trackers.
• Enhanced cooling: Better air circulation prevents efficiency losses from overheating.
• Clean electricity: Solar systems do not pollute the environment as they use sunlight as the fuel to generate electricity. And as we all know, sunlight is non-polluting. 

What Are the Disadvantages of a Ground-Mounted Solar Structure?

Ground-mounted solar installations are up to 20% more expensive than rooftop solar systems. Moreover, homeowners and housing societies can’t claim any subsidy on ground-mounts, and including solar trackers make the maintenance expensive and complex.

Let’s check out all the disadvantages of ground-mounted solar panels in detail:

• Higher upfront cost: Extra land work, foundations, fencing, and longer cables make them 20% costlier than rooftop solar.
• More space needed: You need open land to install ground-mounted solar instead of unused rooftop space, as is the case with rooftop solar.
• More site work: Soil tests, leveling, drainage fixes, and access paths add time and labor.
• Weed and dust control: Grass and weeds can shade panels, and open land is dusty, so cleaning is more frequent.
• Weather and water risk: Flooding, soft soil, or high winds can affect foundations and structures easily in ground-mounted solar. These issues are eliminated by using strong solar mounting structures on rooftops.
• Slower to build: Permits and land checks take a lot more time in ground-mounted solar. Hence, installation is usually slower than a simple rooftop job.
• No subsidy benefit for residential sector: Homeowners and housing societies are not provided any subsidy assistance under the PM Surya Ghar Scheme for installing ground-mounted solar.

Conclusion

A ground-mounted solar system in India is mostly used in utility-scale solar installations. Ground-mounts require significant land commitment as they’re installed in open land areas. While they do generate slightly more power than rooftop solar systems, ground-mounted solar power systems are still not widely preferred for housing societies and homes. 

Rooftop solar is better for residential and commercial installations as it’s up to 20% cheaper and simpler to maintain. Need any further information on rooftop solar installations at homes in India? Book a free solar consultation call with SolarSquare now.

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FAQs

Q1. How long do ground-mounted panels last?

Ans. High-quality solar panels can last for 25+ years with optimal maintenance. It’s important to schedule professional cleaning and maintenance of the solar system throughout its life to ensure the system keeps working at its maximum potential.

Q2. What does ground-mounted mean?

Ans. It means the solar panels are fixed on frames or poles anchored in open land, not on a roof. You place them where you have clear space and sun.

Q3. Is a 90% efficient solar panel possible?

Ans. No, a solar panel can’t achieve an efficiency of 90% because panels use only a part of the sunlight. Some colors pass through, some energy turns into heat, and some light bounces off, so a lot of energy is lost.

Q4. What is the cost of a 1 MW solar power plant?

Ans. The estimated cost of a 1 MW solar power plant in India in 2025 is Rs. 3-4 crores* without BESS and 4-5 crores* with a battery system for installation. *Please note: The above-mentioned project cost for 1 MW solar power plant in India is not fixed. The final cost of setting up a 1 MW solar power plant in India can vary based on many factors, including (but not limited to) the type and efficiency of solar panels and inverter you choose, product variant opted for, mounting structure height, type of solar system, your city, type of after-sales service, savings guarantee, etc. Prices are subject to change.

Q5. How much space is needed for ground-mounted solar?

Ans. It requires 100 square feet of shadow-free area to install a 1 kW solar system. So, if you’re installing a 100 kW ground-mounted solar system, it will require at least 10,000 square feet of shadow-free land.