Types of Solar Installations: Finding the Right Fit for Your Property
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Types of Solar Installations: Finding the Right Fit for Your Property

Lovelyn Ayeni

May 2025

At Riverside Energy Systems, we understand that every property is unique, and so is every solar installation. Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or managing a rural or off-grid site, choosing the right type of solar system is key to getting the most out of your investment. Here’s a quick guide to the most common solar installation types we offer, and how to know which one suits your needs best.

 

1.     Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Properties with ample unused land.

Ground-mounted systems are installed directly on the ground using mounting structures. This type is ideal when your roof space is limited, shaded, or not structurally suitable for solar panels.

Ground_Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Easy Maintenance: Panels are accessible for cleaning and repairs.
  • Better Cooling: Air can circulate freely around the panels, improving efficiency.
  • Flexible Positioning: Panels can be angled perfectly for maximum sun exposure.

Considerations

  • Requires trenching for wiring and secure foundations.
  • Needs open land that isn't used for other purposes.

 

2.     Pole-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Small installations, remote locations, or off-grid setups.

Pole-mounted systems use a single pole to support one or more panels and are often used in off-grid or difficult-to-reach areas. These systems can be static or equipped with trackers to follow the sun's movement.

Pole-Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Compact Footprint: Ideal where ground space is limited.
  • Seasonal Adjustment: Some systems can be tilted manually or automatically to follow the sun throughout the year.
  • Great for Snowy Climates: Panels can be elevated and angled steeply to shed snow more easily.

Considerations:

  • Typically supports fewer panels than a ground or roof system.
  • May require more advanced engineering for solar tracking features.

 

3.     Roof-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Homes and businesses with sun-exposed roof space.

Roof-mounted systems are the most common type of solar installation. Panels are secured directly to your building's roof using racking systems.

Roof-Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Space-Saving: Makes use of existing roof space without taking up land.
  • Cost-Effective: Often less expensive than ground-mounted systems due to fewer materials and labor.
  • Ideal for Urban Areas: Great for maximizing energy on properties with limited space.

Considerations:

  • Your roof’s condition and orientation need to be assessed.
  • May be more difficult to access for maintenance.
  • Limited flexibility in panel orientation compared to ground or pole mounts.

 

Which One is Right for You?

Not sure what type of installation fits your property? That’s what we’re here for. At Riverside Energy Systems, we offer free consultations and quote to help you determine the most effective setup for your energy needs, whether it’s rooftop, ground, or pole-mounted.

Ready to explore solar, request for quote below.

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Types of Solar Installations: Finding the Right Fit for Your Property
BACK TO PAGE

Types of Solar Installations: Finding the Right Fit for Your Property

May 2025

At Riverside Energy Systems, we understand that every property is unique, and so is every solar installation. Whether you're a homeowner, a business owner, or managing a rural or off-grid site, choosing the right type of solar system is key to getting the most out of your investment. Here’s a quick guide to the most common solar installation types we offer, and how to know which one suits your needs best.

 

1.     Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Properties with ample unused land.

Ground-mounted systems are installed directly on the ground using mounting structures. This type is ideal when your roof space is limited, shaded, or not structurally suitable for solar panels.

Ground_Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Easy Maintenance: Panels are accessible for cleaning and repairs.
  • Better Cooling: Air can circulate freely around the panels, improving efficiency.
  • Flexible Positioning: Panels can be angled perfectly for maximum sun exposure.

Considerations

  • Requires trenching for wiring and secure foundations.
  • Needs open land that isn't used for other purposes.

 

2.     Pole-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Small installations, remote locations, or off-grid setups.

Pole-mounted systems use a single pole to support one or more panels and are often used in off-grid or difficult-to-reach areas. These systems can be static or equipped with trackers to follow the sun's movement.

Pole-Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Compact Footprint: Ideal where ground space is limited.
  • Seasonal Adjustment: Some systems can be tilted manually or automatically to follow the sun throughout the year.
  • Great for Snowy Climates: Panels can be elevated and angled steeply to shed snow more easily.

Considerations:

  • Typically supports fewer panels than a ground or roof system.
  • May require more advanced engineering for solar tracking features.

 

3.     Roof-Mounted Solar Systems

Best for: Homes and businesses with sun-exposed roof space.

Roof-mounted systems are the most common type of solar installation. Panels are secured directly to your building's roof using racking systems.

Roof-Mounted Solar System

Key Benefits:

  • Space-Saving: Makes use of existing roof space without taking up land.
  • Cost-Effective: Often less expensive than ground-mounted systems due to fewer materials and labor.
  • Ideal for Urban Areas: Great for maximizing energy on properties with limited space.

Considerations:

  • Your roof’s condition and orientation need to be assessed.
  • May be more difficult to access for maintenance.
  • Limited flexibility in panel orientation compared to ground or pole mounts.

 

Which One is Right for You?

Not sure what type of installation fits your property? That’s what we’re here for. At Riverside Energy Systems, we offer free consultations and quote to help you determine the most effective setup for your energy needs, whether it’s rooftop, ground, or pole-mounted.

Ready to explore solar, request for quote below.