How Much Do Ground-Mounted Solar Panels Cost UK?

Scalable technology is one of the best things about solar power.

Generation of electricity is possible in places as small as the top of a streetlamp, to as vast as a solar farm.

Residential PV on rooftops is common, but there has recently been an increased interest in domestic ground-mounted solar panels.

Cost of Ground Mounted Solar Panels

The cheapest option for ground mounted solar panels is to use tubs; but the best option is raised steel frames.

This is because the height and pitch of raised frames ensure less shade and vegetation interference and no maintenance.

The cost of a raised system without a trench; once you include the inverter, meter, and installation, will total approximately £14k-15k or £2.35 p/per watt.

The ground mount system can be up to 35% more expensive than roof panels. However, they can be more cost-effective if placed against a fence or building and braced on fixed structures.

However, for rooves with enough space for panels that face South, East, or West, this should always be your first option, even if you doubt your roof will support it.

Ground-mount panels are set in metal frames and secured by concrete or piledriven foundations.

With enough land and optimal orientation, the main advantage of ground mounts, which isn’t possible on rooftops, is the maximisation of solar generation.

What to do with the surrounding ground?

Ground-mounted panels are usually raised about 0.5m above the ground.

It is a personal choice as to how the space below is left:

• You can allow grass or wildflowers to seed which, provided they don’t overgrow or cause shade over the panels, are great for pollinators.
• You could also lay weed matting or any surface that increases solar generation.