Ground Mounted Solar Panels in Australia: Cost, Types and Installation
- Key Takeaways
- What Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
- What Types of Ground Mount Solar Systems Are Available?
- Ground Mounted vs Rooftop Solar Panels: Key Differences
- How Much Space Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Need?
- How Much Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost in Australia?
- What Installation Rules and Approvals Apply to Ground Mounted Solar Panels in Australia?
- How Do You Plan a Ground Mounted Solar Installation?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Ground-mounted solar can be a good fit if your roof is too shaded, too small or simply not the best place for panels. Instead of working around the roof, you can place the array where it gets better sun. The trade-off is that the job usually involves more groundwork, such as foundations, trenching and extra electrical work. If you're comparing this option, it's worth looking at land use, installation costs, local approvals and how the system will hold up in Australia's heat and harsh weather.
Key Takeaways
Allow enough clear land for panel rows, maintenance access and suitable spacing between rows.
Installation costs can increase with foundation work, trenching, longer cable runs and site preparation.
Council or planning approval may be required depending on the location, system size, land use and local rules.
Choose an appropriately accredited solar installer and licensed electrician to meet relevant design, electrical and grid-connection requirements.
What Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
Ground-mounted solar panels are simply panels installed on a frame in the ground rather than on a roof. Because the array stands on its own structure, it doesn't rely on the house for support. Like rooftop solar, the panels produce DC electricity, which is then converted for use around the home. Some setups also pair the panels with battery storage, so you can use some of that solar power later in the day.
What Types of Ground Mount Solar Systems Are Available?
Not every ground-mounted solar system looks the same. Some are simple fixed frames, while others are designed to adjust angle or follow the sun. The best option usually comes down to how much space you have, how exposed the site is and how much you want to spend.
Fixed-Tilt Ground Mounts
Fixed-tilt mounts hold rows of panels at a set angle on posts or footings, with no moving parts. Their straightforward design and lower maintenance needs make them a practical choice for many Australian homes, farms and rural properties.
Ground Mounting Kits and Custom Racking
A solar panel ground mounting kit usually includes rails, supports and fixings for a particular array layout. Before choosing one, check the panel dimensions, approved clamping zones and the structure's suitability for local wind and soil conditions. Sloping, rocky or exposed sites may need a custom-engineered mounting system.
Pole-Mounted Systems
Pole-mounted systems support a smaller solar array on a single, engineered post. Some designs allow you to adjust the tilt between seasons, which can help when available ground space is limited. The pole and foundation still need to withstand local wind loads, particularly in exposed rural locations.
Solar Tracking Systems
Solar tracking systems adjust panel angles throughout the day to capture more sunlight. Single-axis trackers typically follow the sun's daily movement, and dual-axis designs can also adjust for seasonal changes. Tracking can increase energy production, but the motors, controls and extra maintenance add cost. Most smaller residential projects can start by comparing fixed-tilt options.
Ground Mounted vs Rooftop Solar Panels: Key Differences
Choosing between the two comes down to more than where the panels sit. Ground-mounted solar panels and rooftop systems differ in installation cost, available space, cooling, maintenance, and approval requirements, as shown in the comparison below:
Factor | Ground Mounted | Rooftop |
Space | Requires suitable land, row spacing and access | Uses available roof space |
Direction and Tilt | Greater flexibility in array placement | Depends largely on roof orientation and design |
Installation Cost | Usually higher due to racking and site work | Often lower for a straightforward installation |
Ventilation | Open mounting can improve airflow | Depends on roof clearance and mounting design |
Maintenance Access | Generally easier to reach from the ground | May require roof-access equipment |
Planning Requirements | May involve additional planning or structural checks | Many standard residential installations qualify for exemptions |
When Ground Mount Makes More Sense
A ground-mounted solar panels for home use is often worth considering when the roof just isn't a great solar site. That might be because of heavy shade, limited usable roof space or a roof that's due for major work anyway. It can also work well on rural properties where you want power closer to a shed, pump or workshop rather than the house itself. If you have clear land and a manageable cable run, installation is usually much easier to plan.
When Rooftop Solar Makes More Sense
For suburban homes with a suitable roof, rooftop solar panels often offer a more straightforward installation. An unshaded north-, east- or west-facing roof can provide useful solar generation, and the existing structure helps avoid much of the groundwork that a separate array would need.
Pros and Cons of Ground Mounted Solar Panels
Beyond the initial installation, ground-mounted solar panels have a few practical advantages and drawbacks worth considering.
Pro:
Easier future expansion. If you have spare land, you may be able to add more panels later, provided the electrical system and relevant approvals allow it.
No disruption to roof maintenance. You can repair or replace your roof without having to remove the solar array.
Con:
More ongoing site upkeep. A ground array occupies land that needs periodic attention, especially where farming, gardening or other outdoor activities take place nearby.
Greater exposure to accidental damage. Low-mounted panels and cables may need protection from livestock, vehicles and mowing equipment, particularly on rural properties.
How Much Space Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Need?
The size of each solar panel affects the array's footprint, but you'll also need space for row spacing, maintenance access and any required setbacks. Two systems with the same capacity can occupy different areas depending on the panel layout, tilt and slope of the land. Ask your installer for a scaled site plan before setting aside part of your property.
System Size | Approximate Panel Count | Combined Panel Surface Area | Land Planning Considerations |
3kW | 7 × 440W | About 14m² | Can suit a compact layout where conditions allow |
6.6kW | 15 × 440W | About 29m² | Allow space for one or more rows and access |
10kW | 23 × 440W | About 45m² | Larger layouts may need multiple rows and wider access |
13kW | 30 × 440W | About 59m² | Allow for row spacing, foundations and equipment access |
*The figures above show the combined area of the panels, which is only part of the land needed for a ground-mounted installation.
The panel area gives you a starting point, but the full installation needs additional land for spacing, access and any required setbacks. Two arrays with the same capacity can occupy very different areas depending on the panel layout, tilt and slope of the site. Ask your installer for a scaled layout before setting aside part of your yard or paddock.
How Much Do Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost in Australia?
If you're looking at ground-mounted solar panels, the panels themselves are only part of the bill. Rooftop system prices give you a starting point, but what it takes to build the array on your land will affect the final figure.
Typical Residential Ground Mount Cost
Solar Choice's 1 October 2026 price index puts the national average price of a fully installed rooftop system at A$6,330 for 6kW and A$9,810 for 10kW, including GST and after the STC discount. A ground-mounted installation can cost more once you factor in its own mounting structure, foundations, trenching, cabling and any extra engineering or labour. Ask installers to itemise these costs so you can see how much the ground installation adds to the quote.
What Affects the Final Quote?
Ground-mounted solar panels cost more to install when the site is rocky, steep or difficult to reach. On suitable ground, installers may be able to drive support posts straight into the soil. Harder sites might need concrete footings or extra engineering work. A long cable run back to the switchboard adds to the bill too, especially if it involves more trenching or electrical upgrades. When comparing quotes, check whether they include site preparation and any approval fees. A lower headline price may leave out work you'll still have to pay for.
Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels More Expensive Than Rooftop Solar?
Usually, yes. However, the lower installation quote won't always deliver better long-term value. Compare the expected annual generation, total project cost and any future roof repairs. Where a ground array receives considerably better sunlight, its additional energy production may help justify the higher upfront investment.
What Installation Rules and Approvals Apply to Ground Mounted Solar Panels in Australia?
Planning requirements for ground-mounted systems vary across Australia, so the property location and proposed array size matter.
Council and Planning Approval
Approval requirements depend on the state or territory, local planning rules and the size of your ground-mounted array. Some smaller installations qualify for exemptions, although the conditions vary by location.
New South Wales: Exempt development provisions can cover qualifying ground-mounted systems occupying up to 150m² and reaching no more than 5m high, subject to boundary setbacks, heritage restrictions and other conditions.
Tasmania: Solar installations may need separate planning and building approvals, depending on the project and local requirements. Check with your council before installation.
Australian Capital Territory: Ground-mounted panels may qualify for a development approval exemption if they meet the applicable conditions, including a minimum 1.5m distance from side and rear boundaries and restrictions relating to the building line.
Northern Territory: Solar PV installations in relevant building control areas generally require a building permit, with certification requirements depending on the property and project.
Before arranging installation, confirm the planning and building requirements with your local authority. Grid-connected systems also need to follow the relevant electricity distributor's connection approval process.
Electrical, Solar and Grid-Connection Requirements
Grid-connected solar systems must meet the relevant Australian electrical and installation standards. These include AS/NZS 5033 for PV arrays, AS/NZS 3000 for electrical wiring and applicable AS/NZS 4777 requirements for grid-connected inverters. To qualify for small-scale technology certificates (STCs), the system must also meet Clean Energy Regulator requirements for accredited design, installation and approved components. Check the connection process with your local electricity distributor before installation, as network limits and approval procedures vary.
Structural, Wind and Ground-Level Safety Requirements
On an open property, strong winds can put considerable pressure on a solar array. The frame and foundations need to handle local wind loads under AS/NZS 1170.2, especially in cyclone-prone areas. There's also the question of safety when panels sit close to the ground. AS/NZS 5033 requires appropriate restricted-access measures, and the Northern Territory has additional enclosure rules for certain freestanding arrays below 2.5m. A documented risk assessment may allow an exception to those NT requirements. Your installer can check what applies before settling on the design.
How Do You Plan a Ground Mounted Solar Installation?
Before installation, a site assessment should confirm the array layout, foundation design and electrical connections.
Assess the Site, Soil and Access
A sunny patch may look ideal for ground-mounted solar panels. The soil can tell a different story. Rocky ground may complicate the foundations, and a steep slope could call for a more involved frame design. Watch where water collects after heavy rain, check for buried services and make sure installers can reach the site with their equipment. Nearby trees deserve a look too, especially the shade they cast in winter.
Set the Direction, Tilt and Row Spacing
North-facing panels are a common choice for Australian properties seeking strong annual solar output. For these arrays, a tilt angle within about 10° of the site's latitude is a useful starting point for maximising annual generation, although seasonal electricity needs may favour a different angle. Row spacing also matters, particularly in winter when the sun sits lower in the sky. Your installer should account for panel dimensions, tilt and land slope to reduce shading between rows.
Choose the Mounting Structure and Foundations
A solar panel ground mount can use driven posts, ground screws or concrete footings, depending on the soil and wind conditions. The mounting structure must also suit the panels you choose.
The panels themselves also need to handle long-term outdoor exposure. For a smaller fixed array serving a shed or off-grid setup, the EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panel offers high-efficiency monocrystalline cells in a robust, corrosion-resistant aluminium frame. Its IP68-rated weather protection and resistance to specified wind and static loads make it a practical option for outdoor installations, with a long-term power output warranty adding reassurance for permanent use.
Plan the Cable Run, Inverter and Energy Storage
If the panels sit some distance from the house or shed, the cable run deserves an early look. A longer run means more trenching and may need thicker cables to limit voltage drop. For grid-connected systems, Solar Victoria flags AC cable losses above 2% between the inverter and the point of supply for review. It's worth checking the cable route before settling on the array's final position.
A small off-grid shed or workshop brings another consideration. You might only need electricity for LED lights, a laptop and charging cordless tool batteries, but some of that power will be needed after sunset. Pairing the solar panels with battery storage gives you access to the electricity collected during the day, even when the panels are no longer generating power.
For example, one EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panel could generate around 1.2kWh of usable energy over a day with four peak sun hours and an assumed 75% energy yield. Its electrical specifications suit the low-voltage solar input on the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 Portable Power Station. The DELTA Pro 3 stores that energy for evening use, with powerful AC output for compatible workshop equipment and expandable LFP battery storage for longer periods of use. If you plan to add more panels, check their combined voltage and current against the power station's solar input limits, along with how much electricity your shed needs each day.
Design for Heat, UV, Wind and Harsh Outdoor Conditions
Ground-mounted solar panels face year-round exposure to the elements. Conditions vary across Australia, so it's worth considering how the local climate may affect the panels, mounting structure and wiring.
Heat Management: Hot summer days can raise panel temperatures and reduce electricity output. Leave space for air to circulate behind the panels, and position the inverter in a shaded, well-ventilated spot.
UV Protection: Years of direct sunlight can damage unsuitable cable insulation and plastic fittings. Use UV-resistant cables and suitable conduit for exposed wiring, and secure cables to prevent rubbing against the frame.
Wind Resistance: Open rural properties can face strong gusts, particularly in cyclone-prone parts of northern Australia. Make sure the mounting structure and foundations can withstand local wind conditions.
Coastal Corrosion: Salt-laden air can accelerate corrosion of metal frames and fittings. Choose corrosion-resistant materials suited to coastal conditions and check for signs of deterioration during routine inspections.
Vegetation and Equipment Protection: Keep grass and weeds trimmed to prevent shading and maintain access around the array. Regular solar panel maintenance should also include visual checks for damaged cable protection and loose fittings, particularly where livestock or mowing equipment operate nearby.
Conclusion
Ground-mounted solar panels may look like a good option, but the details of your property can change the cost considerably. A site visit can reveal foundation work or cable expenses that won't show up in a basic solar quote. Ask your installer for a clear layout and an itemised installation price before committing. That should give you a better idea of whether the extra work makes financial sense for your property.
FAQs
Can I install ground-mounted solar panels myself?
You may be able to assemble some non-electrical mounting components, subject to local rules and the manufacturer's instructions. Grid-connected solar systems require appropriately licensed electrical work, and STC-eligible installations must meet accreditation requirements. A solar panel ground mounting kit does not automatically satisfy structural, electrical or planning requirements.
Can ground-mounted solar panels be installed on sloping land?
Yes. Ground-mounted solar panels can work on sloping land, although the slope affects foundation design, row spacing and installation access. Gentle slopes may be easier to accommodate, while steeper or uneven sites often need additional engineering. An installer can assess whether the expected solar output justifies the extra site work.
How far should ground-mounted solar panels be from a house?
There is no single minimum distance from a house that applies across Australia. The best location depends on shading, cable length, maintenance access and any relevant planning setbacks. Some rules also specify distances from property boundaries or neighbouring homes. Check the applicable local requirements before finalising the array position.