How much land is required for a ground-mounted solar system?

A typical residential 10kW system requires roughly 600–800 square feet of open space. However, this varies based on panel efficiency and layout.

Are ground-mounted systems more efficient than rooftop systems?

Generally, yes. Because they can be positioned at the perfect angle and stay cooler due to airflow, they often produce more energy per panel than roof-mounted systems.

Can ground-mounted arrays withstand harsh weather conditions?

Absolutely. We use professional-grade solar racking systems engineered to withstand Edmonton’s heavy snow loads and high wind speeds.

Are permits required for ground-mounted solar installations?

Yes. In Edmonton and surrounding areas, both development and electrical permits are required. Boreal Energy Solutions handles all permitting and inspections for you.

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Ground-Mounted Solar Arrays

When a roof isn't the right fit, or when your energy goals demand more space, ground-mounted solar arrays offer the ultimate solution for power, flexibility, and efficiency. At Boreal Energy Solutions, we specialize in high-performance solar energy systems that transform open land into a powerhouse of clean electricity.

Founded on April 30, 2018, Boreal Energy Solutions has spent over 7 years establishing itself as a premier solar energy company in Edmonton. Our engineering-led approach ensures that every solar installation is custom-designed to handle the unique Canadian climate, providing homeowners, farmers, and business owners with a reliable path to energy independence.

From the initial site assessment and soil testing to final commissioning, our team of expert solar panel installers manages the entire lifecycle of your project. We don't just "put panels in the ground", we engineer long-term energy assets.

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What Are Ground-Mounted Solar Arrays?

A ground-mounted solar array is exactly what it sounds like: a solar power system installed on the ground rather than on a building's roof. These systems are anchored using various foundation types, such as concrete piers, helical piles, or ballasted footings, depending on the soil conditions and engineering requirements.

While roof-mounted solutions are popular for urban residential settings, ground-mounted systems are the gold standard for properties with ample land. They are the ideal choice when:

Your roof is shaded by trees or neighboring structures.
Your roof orientation is not optimal for solar harvest.
You have a high energy demand that exceeds your available roof space.
The structural integrity of your current roof cannot support a large array.

Types of Ground-Mounted Solar Array Systems

At Boreal Energy Solutions, we understand that no two landscapes are the same. Our technical expertise allows us to offer specialized solar racking systems tailored to your terrain and budget.

Fixed-Tilt Ground-Mounted Systems

Fixed-tilt systems are the most common and cost-effective option. The solar panels are set at a permanent angle optimized to capture the maximum amount of sunlight based on Edmonton’s latitude. Because they have no moving parts, they require minimal maintenance and offer exceptional long-term reliability.

Adjustable Tilt Ground-Mounted Systems

In Northern climates like Alberta, the sun’s position in the sky changes significantly between winter and summer. Adjustable tilt systems allow us to manually change the angle of the panels seasonally. By tilting the panels steeper in the winter to shed snow and catch the low sun, and flatter in the summer, you can significantly boost your total annual solar energy production.

Tracking Ground-Mounted Systems

For large-scale commercial or agricultural projects seeking maximum ROI, we offer tracking systems. These arrays use sensors to follow the sun’s path across the sky (single-axis) or adjust for both height and direction (dual-axis). While more complex, tracking systems can increase energy yield by up to 25–40% compared to fixed arrays.

Benefits of Ground-Mounted Solar Arrays

Choosing a ground-based solar installation offers several distinct advantages over traditional rooftop setups:

Optimized Orientation: We aren't limited by the "slant" of your house. We can orient your panels to the perfect true south to maximize every minute of daylight.
Higher Efficiency: Ground arrays benefit from better airflow. Keeping solar panels cool improves their electrical conductivity, leading to higher efficiency during hot summer months.
Easier Maintenance: Cleaning snow, debris, or performing solar panel maintenance is much safer and faster when the equipment is at eye level.
Scalability: If your energy needs grow, perhaps you add an EV or expand your commercial operations, it is much easier to add panels to a ground array than to find more roof space.

Our Ground-Mounted Solar Installation Process

With 7 years in the industry, Boreal Energy Solutions has refined a workflow that prioritizes structural safety and system longevity.

Site Evaluation & Land Assessment: We analyze your property’s topography, shading, and proximity to your electrical meter.
Soil Testing & Engineering: Unlike many installers, we perform rigorous soil analysis to determine the right foundation (helical piles vs. concrete) to prevent frost heave.
Custom System Design: Our engineers design a layout that integrates with your existing grid-tied systems or off-grid systems.
Foundation & Racking Installation: We install heavy-duty solar racking systems designed to withstand Alberta’s high wind loads.
Electrical Integration: Our team handles all wiring, including microinverter setup or hybrid inverter integration, ensuring your system is safe and code-compliant.
Commissioning & Monitoring: We test every component and set up digital monitoring so you can track your production in real-time.

Residential, Commercial & Agricultural Applications

Residential Ground-Mounted Solar Systems

For homeowners in rural Edmonton or those with large lots, ground arrays offer a "hidden" energy solution that keeps your home's aesthetic clean while providing 100% of your power needs. We often pair these with battery & energy storage solutions for total energy security.

Commercial & Industrial Solar Arrays

Businesses with high daytime power consumption can utilize unused land to drastically reduce operating costs. Our commercial team specializes in large-scale solar power deployments that provide predictable energy costs for decades.

Agricultural & Rural Property Installations

Farms are the perfect candidates for solar. Ground-mounted arrays can be installed on non-arable land, powering irrigation, barns, and shops. We also offer bifacial high-efficiency panels which capture light reflected off the ground (or snow), perfect for open fields.

Ground-Mounted Arrays vs. Roof-Mounted Systems

Learn more about our Roof-Mounted Solutions.

Why Choose Boreal Energy Solutions?

As a leading solar energy company, we pride ourselves on transparency and technical excellence.

Local Expertise: Based in Edmonton at 16760 121 Ave NW Bay # 4, we understand the specific permits and weather challenges of the region.
Engineering-First: We don't outsource our designs. Our systems are engineered for safety, structural integrity, and maximum ROI.
Quality Components: We utilize technology upgrades like monocrystalline and bifacial panels from Tier-1 manufacturers.
Comprehensive Support: From system health inspections to backup power management, we stay with you long after the panels are switched on.