A Complete Guide to Ground-Mounted Solar PV Systems – Why Blue Ape Renewables is Your Best Choice
Ground Mounted Solar PV Guide
Solar PV
20/03/25
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At Blue Ape Renewables, we believe solar energy should be accessible to everyone—whether you have a large commercial site, a farm, or even just a garden at home. While roof-mounted solar panels are a popular choice, many homeowners and businesses benefit from ground-mounted solar PV systems, offering greater flexibility, higher efficiency, and easier maintenance.
💡 Thinking about installing solar in your garden or on your land? A ground-mounted system could be the perfect solution—but what do you need to consider?
In this guide, we cover:
✅ Why a ground-mounted solar system could be a better option than rooftop panels
✅ How to install a small solar system in your garden
✅ How much land is needed for different system sizes
✅ Shading issues and how to get the best solar efficiency
✅ Planning permission and whether there’s a fast-track option
✅ How Blue Ape Renewables handles everything for you, including planning, installation, and DNO applications
A ground-mounted solar PV system is a solar array installed on a metal framework secured to the ground, rather than being attached to a rooftop. These systems are ideal for homeowners with gardens, farms, and commercial landowners looking to generate cheap, renewable electricity.
Why Choose a Ground-Mounted Solar System Over Rooftop Solar?
✔ Perfect for homes where the roof isn’t suitable (e.g., too small, shaded, or structurally weak)
✔ Easier maintenance—panels are at ground level for cleaning and servicing
✔ Better solar efficiency—panels can be angled for maximum sunlight exposure
✔ Expandable—start with a small system in your garden and expand later
💡 A ground-mounted solar system lets you place panels in the best location possible—something you can’t always do with rooftop solar!
For homeowners with sufficient outdoor space, a small domestic ground-mounted solar system can be a fantastic alternative to rooftop panels.
📏 A 1kW system (around 2-3 solar panels) needs roughly 10-15m² of garden space.
📏 A 4kW system (typical for homes) needs around 40m².
📏 A 10kW system (for higher energy users) requires about 100m².
💡 If you have a south-facing garden, you can install a system that produces free electricity for your home—even if your roof isn’t suitable!
Unlike rooftops, gardens often have trees, hedges, and fencing that can create shading issues for solar panels. Even small amounts of shade can significantly reduce solar output, so proper placement is crucial.
How We Solve This:
✔ SolarEdge Optimisers—these prevent shading on one panel from affecting the whole system.
✔ Adjustable Tilt & Positioning—we carefully plan your panel angles for maximum efficiency.
✔ Shading Analysis—we conduct a full shading assessment before installation.
💡 Not sure if your garden is suitable? Blue Ape Renewables offers free solar site assessments!
The good news is that most small ground-mounted solar installations in domestic gardens fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), meaning you don’t need planning permission.
❌ If the system covers more than 9m² of land (roughly 6-8 panels).
❌ If the panels are taller than 2.5m.
❌ If your home is in a conservation area, listed building, or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Some councils offer a renewables fast-track service, where applications are approved within 4-8 weeks instead of the usual 6-12 weeks.
💡 Blue Ape Renewables handles all planning applications for you—we make the process quick and hassle-free!
A ground-mounted system works the same as a rooftop system, but with more flexibility.
1️⃣ Sunlight hits the solar panels, generating DC (direct current) electricity.
2️⃣ The inverter converts DC to AC (alternating current) for home use.
3️⃣ Any unused energy is either stored in a battery or exported to the grid.
💡 We install high-performance SolarEdge inverters to maximise efficiency and ensure reliability.
If your system is over 3.68kW (single-phase) or 11kW (three-phase), you will need DNO approval via a G99 application.
📅 Step 1: Application Submission – We submit the paperwork to your DNO. (1-2 weeks)
📅 Step 2: DNO Assessment – The grid operator checks network impact. (6-12 weeks)
📅 Step 3: Approval & Connection – Once approved, installation begins. (Total time: 6-14 weeks)
💡 We handle all grid applications for you—so you don’t have to worry about any of the technical details.
❌ Shading from trees or buildings
💡 Solution: SolarEdge Optimisers and expert panel placement.
❌ Limited garden space
💡 Solution: Compact, high-efficiency panels with a smaller footprint.
❌ Grid constraints
💡 Solution: Smart battery storage to reduce grid reliance.
At Blue Ape Renewables, we offer end-to-end service, including:
✔ Expert Ground-Mount Solar Installers – Nationwide coverage.
✔ Complete Planning & Grid Application Management – No paperwork hassle for you.
✔ Shading & Efficiency Optimisation – Ensuring maximum performance.
✔ SolarEdge & Battery Storage Specialists – Future-proof your system.
✔ Rated Excellent on Trustpilot – Proven customer satisfaction.
💡 Watch our ground-mounted solar installations on YouTube to see our expert team in action!
1. Can I install a ground-mounted system in my garden?
Yes! Most small domestic systems fall under Permitted Development Rights.
2. Is ground-mounted solar better than rooftop solar?
If you have available garden space, ground-mounted solar can be more efficient and easier to maintain.
3. How much power can I generate from a ground-mount system?
A 4kW system (10-12 panels) will generate around 3,500-4,000kWh per year, enough to power a typical home.
4. Do I need a battery with my ground-mounted system?
A battery isn’t required, but it allows you to store energy for use at night and reduce reliance on the grid.
5. Can I get paid for excess energy from my system?
Yes! The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays you for electricity sent back to the grid.
📞 Call us now for a free consultation: 0151 452 4085
📧 Email us: info@blueaperenewables.co.uk
💡 Turn your garden into a renewable energy powerhouse—get started today! 🚀🔋☀️
💡 Thinking about installing solar in your garden or on your land? A ground-mounted system could be the perfect solution—but what do you need to consider?
In this guide, we cover:
✅ Why a ground-mounted solar system could be a better option than rooftop panels
✅ How to install a small solar system in your garden
✅ How much land is needed for different system sizes
✅ Shading issues and how to get the best solar efficiency
✅ Planning permission and whether there’s a fast-track option
✅ How Blue Ape Renewables handles everything for you, including planning, installation, and DNO applications
What is a Ground-Mounted Solar PV System?
A ground-mounted solar PV system is a solar array installed on a metal framework secured to the ground, rather than being attached to a rooftop. These systems are ideal for homeowners with gardens, farms, and commercial landowners looking to generate cheap, renewable electricity.
Why Choose a Ground-Mounted Solar System Over Rooftop Solar?
✔ Perfect for homes where the roof isn’t suitable (e.g., too small, shaded, or structurally weak)
✔ Easier maintenance—panels are at ground level for cleaning and servicing
✔ Better solar efficiency—panels can be angled for maximum sunlight exposure
✔ Expandable—start with a small system in your garden and expand later
💡 A ground-mounted solar system lets you place panels in the best location possible—something you can’t always do with rooftop solar!
Installing a Small Ground-Mounted Solar System in a Garden
For homeowners with sufficient outdoor space, a small domestic ground-mounted solar system can be a fantastic alternative to rooftop panels.
How Much Space Do You Need?
📏 A 1kW system (around 2-3 solar panels) needs roughly 10-15m² of garden space.
📏 A 4kW system (typical for homes) needs around 40m².
📏 A 10kW system (for higher energy users) requires about 100m².
💡 If you have a south-facing garden, you can install a system that produces free electricity for your home—even if your roof isn’t suitable!
Shading: A Key Factor in Garden Solar Systems
Unlike rooftops, gardens often have trees, hedges, and fencing that can create shading issues for solar panels. Even small amounts of shade can significantly reduce solar output, so proper placement is crucial.
How We Solve This:
✔ SolarEdge Optimisers—these prevent shading on one panel from affecting the whole system.
✔ Adjustable Tilt & Positioning—we carefully plan your panel angles for maximum efficiency.
✔ Shading Analysis—we conduct a full shading assessment before installation.
💡 Not sure if your garden is suitable? Blue Ape Renewables offers free solar site assessments!
Planning Permission for Ground-Mounted Solar – Do You Need It?
The good news is that most small ground-mounted solar installations in domestic gardens fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), meaning you don’t need planning permission.
When is Planning Permission Required?
❌ If the system covers more than 9m² of land (roughly 6-8 panels).
❌ If the panels are taller than 2.5m.
❌ If your home is in a conservation area, listed building, or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Fast-Track Planning Permission for Renewable Energy
Some councils offer a renewables fast-track service, where applications are approved within 4-8 weeks instead of the usual 6-12 weeks.
💡 Blue Ape Renewables handles all planning applications for you—we make the process quick and hassle-free!
How Ground-Mounted Solar PV Systems Work
A ground-mounted system works the same as a rooftop system, but with more flexibility.
1️⃣ Sunlight hits the solar panels, generating DC (direct current) electricity.
2️⃣ The inverter converts DC to AC (alternating current) for home use.
3️⃣ Any unused energy is either stored in a battery or exported to the grid.
💡 We install high-performance SolarEdge inverters to maximise efficiency and ensure reliability.
Grid Connection & G99 Application for Ground-Mounted Solar
If your system is over 3.68kW (single-phase) or 11kW (three-phase), you will need DNO approval via a G99 application.
How Long Does a G99 Application Take?
📅 Step 1: Application Submission – We submit the paperwork to your DNO. (1-2 weeks)
📅 Step 2: DNO Assessment – The grid operator checks network impact. (6-12 weeks)
📅 Step 3: Approval & Connection – Once approved, installation begins. (Total time: 6-14 weeks)
💡 We handle all grid applications for you—so you don’t have to worry about any of the technical details.
Potential Challenges & Solutions
❌ Shading from trees or buildings
💡 Solution: SolarEdge Optimisers and expert panel placement.
❌ Limited garden space
💡 Solution: Compact, high-efficiency panels with a smaller footprint.
❌ Grid constraints
💡 Solution: Smart battery storage to reduce grid reliance.
Why Choose Blue Ape Renewables for Your Ground-Mounted Solar System?
At Blue Ape Renewables, we offer end-to-end service, including:
✔ Expert Ground-Mount Solar Installers – Nationwide coverage.
✔ Complete Planning & Grid Application Management – No paperwork hassle for you.
✔ Shading & Efficiency Optimisation – Ensuring maximum performance.
✔ SolarEdge & Battery Storage Specialists – Future-proof your system.
✔ Rated Excellent on Trustpilot – Proven customer satisfaction.
💡 Watch our ground-mounted solar installations on YouTube to see our expert team in action!
Frequently Asked Questions About Ground-Mount Solar
1. Can I install a ground-mounted system in my garden?
Yes! Most small domestic systems fall under Permitted Development Rights.
2. Is ground-mounted solar better than rooftop solar?
If you have available garden space, ground-mounted solar can be more efficient and easier to maintain.
3. How much power can I generate from a ground-mount system?
A 4kW system (10-12 panels) will generate around 3,500-4,000kWh per year, enough to power a typical home.
4. Do I need a battery with my ground-mounted system?
A battery isn’t required, but it allows you to store energy for use at night and reduce reliance on the grid.
5. Can I get paid for excess energy from my system?
Yes! The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays you for electricity sent back to the grid.
Start Your Ground-Mounted Solar Journey Today!
📞 Call us now for a free consultation: 0151 452 4085
📧 Email us: info@blueaperenewables.co.uk
💡 Turn your garden into a renewable energy powerhouse—get started today! 🚀🔋☀️
