Introduction: Why Choose a Ground-Mounted Solar Array?
Going solar is no longer just for off-grid cabins or high-tech eco-homes. Increasingly, suburban homeowners are turning to residential ground-mounted solar arrays as an alternative to rooftop systems. Why? For some properties, roof orientation and shading make rooftop solar less effective. Others want to preserve their roof for future upgrades or avoid penetrations in new roofing materials. Whatever the motivation, ground-mounted solar arrays offer flexibility in system size, optimal placement for sunlight, and ease of maintenance.
But what does it really take to transform a typical suburban home into a green energy powerhouse with a ground-mounted solar array? In this detailed case study, we’ll walk through the step-by-step journey of a real family who made the switch. We’ll cover every aspect—site assessment, design decisions, budgeting, permitting, installation, and performance in the first year. Along the way, you’ll find practical tips, lessons learned, and honest numbers. If you’re considering ground-mounted solar for your own property, this in-depth look will help you make informed choices and avoid common pitfalls.
Project Background: The Home and Family
The Smith family—two adults, two school-aged children—lives in a 2,600-square-foot home on a quarter-acre suburban lot in the Midwest. Their property features a south-facing backyard with ample sun exposure and no significant shade from neighboring properties. The house has a relatively new composite shingle roof, which the family wanted to keep untouched for warranty purposes.
With rising utility rates and a commitment to reducing their environmental footprint, the Smiths set a goal to offset at least 90% of their annual electricity usage with solar power. Their average monthly energy use was 1,150 kWh, peaking in summer due to central air conditioning.
Site Assessment: Evaluating the Potential
Sunlight Analysis
The first step was a professional site assessment. Using a solar pathfinder and year-round sun tracking data, the solar contractor confirmed that the backyard received over 6 hours of full sun per day in all but the cloudiest months. The area was free of large trees and had a slight southern slope, ideal for fixed-tilt solar panels.
Soil and Space Considerations
The chosen area measured 30 by 40 feet, enough to accommodate a moderate-sized array while leaving room for play and gardening. A soil test showed stable loam with no drainage issues, simplifying the foundation requirements for the mounting structure.
Design Choices: Sizing, Equipment, and Layout
System Sizing
To cover 90% of their 13,800 kWh annual usage, the system needed to generate about 12,400 kWh per year, accounting for inverter losses and seasonal variation. Based on local solar irradiance (4.5 kWh/m2/day), a 10 kW DC system was recommended.
Panel Selection
- Model: High-efficiency monocrystalline panels (425W each)
- Number: 24 panels for a total of 10.2 kW
- Warranty: 25-year performance guarantee
Inverter and Monitoring
- Inverter: 10 kW string inverter with rapid shutdown capability
- Monitoring: Online portal with real-time power output and historical data
Mounting Structure
- Galvanized steel racking fixed at a 30-degree tilt, oriented due south
- Concrete piers set below frost line for Midwest winters
Wiring and Grid Connection
- Direct burial rated conduit from array to main service panel (approx. 120 feet)
- Dedicated disconnect switch for emergency and utility access
Permitting, Compliance, and Utility Interconnection
Local Permits
The Smiths’ municipality required a building permit, electrical permit, and zoning approval for the ground-mounted array. The main zoning concern was minimum setbacks from property lines (10 feet), which the design satisfied. HOA approval was not needed, as the array was below fence height and not visible from the street.
National Electrical Code (NEC) Compliance
The system was engineered to comply with the 2020 NEC, including rapid shutdown, proper grounding, and labeling. The contractor submitted stamped drawings for city review.
Interconnection Agreement
The utility required a net metering application and proof of liability insurance. The process took four weeks, including review and a site inspection. After approval, the utility installed a bi-directional meter, allowing the Smiths to send excess power to the grid and receive credit.
Budget: Real Costs and Financing
Upfront Costs
- Solar panels and inverter: $18,500
- Mounting structure and concrete: $4,200
- Electrical and trenching: $2,700
- Permitting and engineering: $1,000
- Labor: $7,100
- Total: $33,500
Incentives and Tax Credits
- Federal Residential Solar Tax Credit (30%): -$10,050
- State rebate: -$1,200
- Net cost after incentives: $22,250
Financing
The family used a combination of savings and a home equity line of credit (HELOC) at 4% interest. Their monthly loan payment was offset by reduced electric bills.
Installation: Step-by-Step Process
Site Preparation
After marking the array’s footprint and confirming utility locations to avoid underground lines, contractors excavated holes for the concrete piers. Each pier was set 42 inches deep to prevent frost heave.
Mounting and Wiring
- Steel racking assembled and leveled on piers
- Panels mounted and wired in series strings
- DC wiring routed through conduit to inverter mounted on exterior wall
- AC output connected to main breaker panel with new disconnect switch
Final Inspection and Commissioning
City inspectors reviewed electrical and structural work, then gave approval. The contractor activated the system, verified operation, and trained the homeowners on portal monitoring and emergency shutdown procedures.
First-Year Performance: The Results
Energy Production
- Total generated: 12,780 kWh (slightly above target)
- Highest month: June (1,430 kWh)
- Lowest month: December (540 kWh)
This production offset 92.6% of the family’s annual usage, making their net electric bill just $7 per month (minimum grid connection fee). Excess summer production banked credits for winter months.
System Reliability
No major issues occurred. One minor inverter warning was resolved remotely by the installer. The array withstood high winds and heavy snow with no panel shifting or damage.
Maintenance
- Visual inspection and debris removal every few weeks
- One annual checkup by the installer (included in warranty)
Lessons Learned: Advice for Prospective Installers
- Plan for access: Leave space around the array for mowing, snow removal, and future panel cleaning.
- Check for buried utilities: Always call before digging, even for shallow trenching.
- Understand local codes: Some municipalities require additional setbacks or landscaping. Do your homework to avoid surprises.
- Think about aesthetics: Low-profile racking and strategic planting can help the array blend in with the landscape.
- Monitor performance: Use the manufacturer’s app to track system health and alert your installer if output drops.
- Budget for extras: Small costs like fencing, signage, or insurance riders can add up.
Environmental and Financial Impact
Carbon Footprint Reduction
Over the first year, the solar array offset an estimated 8.7 metric tons of CO2—equivalent to the emissions from driving 22,000 miles in a typical gasoline car.
Payback Period
With annual electric savings of $1,620, the payback period (after incentives) is projected at 13.7 years. Rising electricity rates could shorten this timeline.
Resale Value
The ground-mounted array is considered a permanent improvement, and a local appraiser estimated a $12,000 increase in home value based on comparable sales.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a ground-mounted array require more maintenance than rooftop solar?
Not significantly. Both need occasional cleaning and annual inspection. Ground-mounted panels are easier to access for cleaning or repairs.
Are ground-mounted systems more expensive?
Typically, yes, due to racking and trenching costs, but they can be optimized for ideal sun exposure and airflow, often yielding better performance.
Do I need to fence the array?
This depends on local code and personal preference. The Smiths did not, but some areas require fencing for safety or aesthetic reasons.
Will I lose my lawn or garden space?
The array footprint will displace some ground, but creative landscaping can integrate the system with gardens or low-maintenance ground cover.
Conclusion: Is a Ground-Mounted Solar Array Right for You?
This case study demonstrates that a ground-mounted solar array can be a practical, high-performing solution for suburban homeowners with the right site conditions. The Smith family’s journey shows that with diligent planning, careful budgeting, and attention to local codes, you can achieve near-total energy independence without touching your roof.
Key takeaways: Start with a thorough site assessment and consult experienced installers who understand your local permitting requirements. Be realistic about costs and factor in both incentives and long-term savings. Remember to consider ongoing maintenance, access, and the visual impact on your property. Track your system’s performance from day one to ensure you maximize your investment and environmental benefits.
While every property is unique, the Smiths’ experience offers a template for success—and a compelling example of how ground-mounted solar can deliver financial returns, environmental impact, and peace of mind. If you’re serious about sustainable living and future energy resilience, a ground-mounted solar array deserves a closer look. The journey requires commitment, but the rewards—both for your wallet and the planet—can be substantial and enduring.
With the Smiths aiming to offset 90% of their usage, how did they determine the ideal system size for their ground-mounted array, and did they leave room for future energy needs growing as their kids get older?
The Smiths worked with their installer to review a full year of historical electricity usage, then used that data to size the system so it would offset about 90% of their annual consumption. They also discussed potential future needs. While the array was sized for current usage, they intentionally left some extra space on their property for possible future expansion if their energy needs increase as their children grow.