Both ground-mounted and rooftop solar panels offer unique benefits, and both provide you with a free source of electricity for your home. But if you’re like most homeowners in Utah, including those looking for Salt Lake City solar panels, cost will factor into your decision.
So which type of photovoltaic array is more affordable?
Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays typically cost more than rooftop systems.
The additional materials needed, including reinforced pole structures and cement foundations, are responsible for much of the added expense. Labor charges are also higher for ground-mounted panels, due to the more involved mounting process.
In addition, placing a photovoltaic array at ground level puts the wiring components in easy reach of rabbits, squirrels and other backyard pests. To prevent critters from munching on your wires, you may need to bury them.
Digging trenches for underground wiring is an extra cost you won’t have with a rooftop array.
Rooftop solar panels are faster and easier to install than a ground-based solar energy system, so labor charges are minimal. Plus, the mounting components are much less expensive.
However, rooftop installation has one potential added cost, roof repair or replacement.
Photovoltaic panels must be mounted on a solid, stable structure. The modules are designed to last for decades, and placing them on a damaged roof is never a good plan. If your roof develops a leak or related problem, the panel array must be removed to fix the problem and subsequently reinstalled.
As this is an expensive, time-consuming and complicated process, professional photovoltaic contractors recommend repairing or replacing a damaged roof before scheduling a rooftop installation.
If your roof is in good shape or needs only minor repairs, you can save money by choosing to install rooftop solar panels.
However, cost isn’t the only consideration.
Some rooftops face the wrong direction for capturing the sun’s energy. Others are shaded by obstructions, such as nearby buildings and trees, or are too small to hold more than a few photovoltaic modules.
Under these conditions, rooftop solar panels may not be as effective as a ground-mounted solar installation. A photovoltaic array mounted at ground level can be placed at the optimal orientation and angle for maximum energy production.
Ultimately, the best decision for your photovoltaic array will depend on several factors — not just your out-of-pocket expenses. A professional contractor can help you weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option and offer recommendations for the most cost-effective installation.
Homeowners throughout Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming can schedule a free consultation with Intermountain Wind & Solar, the region’s leading photovoltaic installer. Contact us today to learn more about ground-mounted solar and rooftop PV panels.
Rooftop solar panels are generally more affordable upfront because they require fewer materials and less labor. Ground-mounted systems cost more due to reinforced pole structures, cement foundations, and trenching for wiring to protect against pests. The panels cost the same.
Additional expenses include mounting poles, concrete footings, extra labor for installation, and potential underground wiring to prevent damage from animals. These factors make ground-mounted arrays pricier than rooftop systems.
Yes. Rooftop solar panels require less labor and fewer materials. Installation is faster, which often reduces overall project cost. However, if the roof is damaged, you may incur extra costs for repairs or replacement before installing panels. Here at Intermountain Wind and Solar, we always do our best to avoid damage to the roof, but sometimes mistakes happen, and when they do, we are ready to come fix any issues we caused because we are proud to stand behind our work and accountability.
Panels should be mounted on a solid, stable roof. Minor repairs are usually fine, but significant roof damage should be fixed before installation to avoid removing and reinstalling panels later. But if you are needing to do a re-roof on your home it's always best to get that done first before getting solar. Otherwise you will have to schedule a time for your solar panels to come get removed, which will cost more. It's best to plan ahead!
Ground-mounted solar can often produce more energy because it can be oriented and angled optimally. Rooftop systems may face shading or orientation challenges that reduce efficiency. But we systems by a reputable solar company should be sized correctly to offset the maximum amount of power regardless if it's a roof or ground-mounted solar system.
Consider factors like cost, roof condition, orientation, available space, and shading. A professional contractor can evaluate your property and recommend the most cost-effective solution. Sometimes it simply comes down to personal preference.
Intermountain Wind & Solar specializes in both rooftop and ground-mounted solar installations and can help homeowners choose the best system for their property. Intermountain Wind & Solar also installs solar systems in Salt Lake City.
Ground-mounted photovoltaic arrays typically cost more than rooftop systems due to extra materials and labor. Reinforced poles, cement foundations, and trenching for underground wiring add to the expense. Labor is higher because installation is more involved, and pest protection may require additional work.
Rooftop solar panels are faster and easier to install, so labor and materials are generally cheaper. However, installation on a damaged roof can increase costs, since repairs or replacement may be necessary before mounting panels.
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Rooftop | Lower installation cost, space-saving, faster install | Shading issues, roof must be in good condition |
| Ground-Mounted | Optimal angle/orientation, easier maintenance, higher production | Higher installation cost, extra labor, pest protection/trenching needed |
If your roof is in good condition and oriented correctly for sunlight, rooftop solar can be cost-effective.
Ground-mounted solar is often the better choice if:
Your roof is shaded or too small
You want maximum energy production
You prefer easier access for maintenance
Ultimately, a professional evaluation will help you weigh costs, efficiency, and long-term benefits.
"All of the photos on this website are of real projects that Intermountain Wind & Solar has designed and installed.
We are proud to show off and stand behind our work."
