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When it comes to utility-scale solar projects, maximizing installation efficiency and reducing costs are top priorities. One innovative solution gaining traction in the industry is ballasted ground mounted solar racking systems. 

Whether you want to decrease CAPEX, reduce labor costs, speed up installation, or avoid ground penetration, here are just some of the many reasons that utility-scale projects can benefit from ballasted ground mounted solar racking. 

Decrease CAPEX:

Ballasted ground mounted solar racks offer a significant advantage in terms of capital expenditure. 

Unlike traditional ground mounted systems that may require extensive excavation, driven piles, or concrete foundations, ballasted systems like PowerField’s PowerRack utilize weighted support to secure the solar panels to the ground. This greatly reduces the need for costly equipment and complex installation processes. The reduced upfront investment in construction materials, equipment, and labor translates into lower overall project costs, making ballasted ground mounted solar racking an attractive choice for utility-scale projects.

No ground penetration = no costly construction equipment.

Decrease Cost of Labor:

Labor costs can be a substantial portion of any solar project. Because ballasted ground mounted solar racking like the PowerRack are so easy to install, highly skilled laborers are not needed. Instead of paying for construction teams to travel to the project site, utility-scale projects can source local, unskilled laborers for installation.

Additionally, the use of ballasted racking eliminates the need for extensive excavation, pile driving, and concrete work, resulting in faster installation and fewer labor hours.

By streamlining the installation process and reducing labor needs, ballasted ground mounted solar racking offers significant cost savings for utility-scale projects.

Expedite Project Timelines

Not only does the use of ballasted ground mounted racking speed up project timelines in terms of installation, but engineering requirements are expedited too. Since the PowerRacks require no ground penetration, utility-scale projects can save months – even years – that would otherwise be spent on extensive engineering such as geotechnical or environmental.

The use of renewable energy for powering agricultural operations has been on the rise in recent years. Solar energy, in particular, has gained popularity due to its many advantages including lower energy costs, reduced carbon footprint, and energy independence. 

However, traditional methods of installing solar panels on rooftops or embedding them in the ground may not be practical or possible for some agricultural properties. This is where ground mounted solar comes in. 

Ground mounted solar racking – particularly ballasted ground mounts – deliver numerous financial and logistical benefits for agricultural properties. 

Read on to find out just some of the ways agricultural solar installers can save money– and time.

Fast Install: Ground mounted solar panels can be quickly installed without any complicated drilling,  trenching, or construction equipment. With ballasted solar mounts like the one-piece PowerRack, the bucket-like product is simply placed on the ground and filled with local ballast material. This means that installations can be completed in a fraction of the time it takes to install traditional methods. Shorter install time = fewer dollars spent.

Unskilled, Local Labor: Because ballasted solutions like the PowerRack are so easy to install, ground mounted solar systems can be set up by unskilled, local labor. Instead of paying for construction teams to travel to the project site, agricultural solar installers can source local, unskilled laborers for installation. Not only does this lower project costs, but it also increases the potential for local economic benefits.

No Ground Penetration: Traditional methods of installing solar panels in the ground require extensive digging and ground penetration, which can be expensive and time-consuming. Ballasted solar ground mounts, on the other hand, use a non-penetrating system that provides a more cost-effective and efficient installation process. This means that agricultural installers can protect their land while also saving thousands on construction and engineering costs.

Permanent AND Portable: Ballasted ground mounted solar systems are both permanent and portable. The PowerRack provides permanent solar racking, but can also be moved as needed. In the same way that installation is fast and easy, so is removal.

Scaleable: Ground mounted solar is highly scalable, meaning the system can be easily expanded or reduced as needed. This flexibility allows for the system to grow with the needs of the agricultural property, whether it’s to accommodate new operations or absorb changes in energy demand.

Durable, Recyclable, Low Profile: The 100% recyclable PowerRack ground mount is built to withstand the elements, having been tested at extremely high winds and intense weather conditions. The rack’s low profile design blends seamlessly into any kind of landscape, providing an aesthetically pleasing addition to any kind of agricultural property.

As a business or property owner, you may have heard of the benefits of solar energy, but perhaps you’re less familiar with the specifics. One decision that commercial property owners should not take lightly is the type of solar racking solution they choose to use.

Ground-mounted solar racking is becoming increasingly popular for commercial property owners who want to save money, get panels installed quickly, and scale their solar systems as they grow.

Read on for the benefits of ground-mounted solar panels and why it may be a smart decision for your business.

1. Save time and money

Ground-mounted solar panel installation is quick and easy. Unlike rooftop solar panels that require time-consuming and complex installation, ground-mounted solar panels can be installed in a matter of days. Ground-mounted solar panels eliminate the need for specialized equipment and skilled labor, saving you money in the long run and helping you reach your installation cost break-even point sooner.

Ballasted solar ground mounts, in particular, are the simplest and quickest solar mounts you could choose to install. While traditional ground mounts require construction of frames, ballasted ground mounts like PowerField’s PowerRack are a one-piece product that anyone can assemble. 

2. No penetration

Unlike rooftop solar panels, ground-mounted solar panels require no penetration into the roof or walls of your commercial property. This eliminates the risk of leaks and damages to your building infrastructure. Ground-mounted solar panels are also easier to maintain, as they are situated on the ground instead of on top of your property.

Not only can you avoid putting weight onto the roof of your property, but ballasted ground mount systems like the PowerRack are placed on the ground without any digging involved. There’s no costly construction equipment required, and no geotechnical or environmental engineering required. 

Additionally, if you decide to sell your property later on, PowerRacks can easily be removed, as they are both permanent AND portable. 

3. Scalable

Ground-mounted solar panel systems are easily scalable depending on your energy needs. They are ideal for expanding your solar panel system as your business grows. This flexible option is perfect for property owners who see an increase in energy demand over time. 

4. Low profile

Ground-mounted solar panels are designed to be low profile, blending into the surrounding landscape. With a sleek and modern design, ground-mounted solar panels complement any commercial property, adding value and aesthetics to your business. The fully-recyclable PowerRack blends into any landscape.