Commercial Solar Ground Mount Systems
Ground mount systems are the perfect alternative for commercial sites and businesses that do not have the adequate roof space to support a roof-mounted solar setup. A commercial solar ground mounted system is in many ways, more efficient and worthwhile for certain businesses that are looking to capitalise on excess space.
How Ground Mount Systems Work
Ground mount systems work in the same way as rooftop setups do with the panels feeding energy into a solar inverter which is located on a setup behind the panels or in another location on the property for distribution.
They can be setup a few centimeters or metres from the earth depending on the type of installation and the racking support chosen. Unlike rooftop setups, ground mount systems have the advantage of angular adjustment with the optimal angle being obtainable for more efficient energy production.
Rooftop panels have the disadvantage of being at the mercy of the angle of the rooftop itself which can lend to less efficient production rates. Depending on the type of ground mount system, a tracking feature can be implemented to further increase efficiency.
Issue of Cost
One common point of contention that many people have with ground mount systems is that of upfront cost. While it is true that they are traditionally more expensive than rooftop alternatives (mostly due to installation costs) the long-term gains far outweigh the short-term costs. Especially with the aforementioned efficiency boost.
There are many advantages with taking the leap to commercial solar! Find out more
Different Types of Ground Mount Systems
We’re CEC Approved retailers and take care of the whole process – from engineering to procurement, to installation.
Not all ground mount systems are the same, we are proud to offer the following options for our clients:
1. Fixed Tilt
Standard setup that incorporates panels affixed to metal framing. This framing is driven into the floor to set the panels at a fixed, optimal angle for the most potential exposure. There are some fixed tilt setups that can be moved around a few times a year in accordance with seasonal changes of the sun.
2. Single Axis Tracking
Like the single tilt, single axis tracking ground mount systems are installed through support being driven into the floor. The major difference in these setups is in the tracking system, as the name suggests, these panels are able to move on a single axis – whether it be north-south, or east-west.
Single axis tracking is typically automated to follow the direction of sunlight throughout the day which can increase energy production and efficiency by 20% compared to the fixed tilt. Single-axis trackers are common in larger scale commercial sites.
3. Ballasted
In certain situations where penetration into the surface area is impossible or ill-advised (loose soil etc.), a Ballasted ground mount system could be the way to go. Offering a quicker installation than the pile-driven setups, a ballasted array is the perfect solution for troublesome terrains such as landfills or loose-soil fields.
13KUGA can assist you in deciding which setup is suitable for your commercial needs. Utilising years of experience and quality workmanship, we can provide the optimal commercial solar solution for your property.
Benefits Of Ground Mount Systems For Commercial Businesses
There are a number of surprising benefits for commercial enterprises that utilise renewable setups, especially ground mount systems. Rooftops are not always optimally oriented for sun exposure which can impede the efficacy of a roof-based setup, with a surface-based setup you have the luxury of having them installed in the location that has maximal sun exposure.
Another fantastic benefit is in the ease of maintenance and adjustment compared to roof-based alternatives. As ground mount systems are easily accessed, adjusting the orientation or conducting regular maintenance is a breeze, consistent breeze and a larger gap underneath the panels also lends itself to keeping the setups cooler for longer.
Over the long term, renewable setups will pay for themselves, especially if the panels are installed by professionals and optimally angled to receive optimal sun exposure. As we are a sun-exposed country, we have untapped potential everywhere and businesses are noticing the incredible long-term gains that can be made while simultaneously supporting a greener Australia.
How 13KUGA Can Help You
We have developed countless projects for commercial enterprises across the country and are looking forward to hearing from you.
We can offer guidance and advice about your prospective set up, suggest ways to optimise your power supply, and of course install and maintain your commercial solar ground mount system.
Commercial Ground Mount System Installations
Commercial Ground Mount System Installations at Omya
Location Omya Australia Pty Ltd.
Solar Panels 400W Longi Solar Bifacial
Inverter 1 x 110kVA Sungrow
Total Solar Production 162.4MWh
KUGA Electrical has completed an initial ground mount solar project at one of OMYAs portfolio of mineral mines. The project included the Council DA application, Civil Engineering, underground trenching as well as the mechanical and electrical installation of the PV panels. The bi-facial solar panels used for this job are producing well over 10% more than the business case numbers suggest for the mono-facial panel.