With the rising adoption of Solar power systems all over India, different types of mounting structures are becoming widely installed. There are two types of the most commonly used structures: Ground-mounted structures (GMS) and Rooftop solar structures.
Each type has its own pros and cons.
In this blog, we’ll compare GMS and rooftop solar structures to help you decide which option best suits your needs.
| Factors | GMS | Table Rooftop |
|---|---|---|
|
Location
|
Installed in open space |
Installed on rooftops |
|
Cost |
Comparatively costlier |
Comparatively cheaper |
|
Output efficiency |
Highly efficient as optimized for full sunlight |
Less efficient than GMS as sometimes does not receive full sunlight |
|
Space |
Requires larger space |
Requires smaller space such as rooftop |
|
Scalability |
Highly scalable |
Less scalable as limited by space |
|
Maintenance |
Easier to maintain |
Less easy to maintain |
|
Installation time |
Takes longer to install |
Faster installation |
|
Strength and durability |
Highly durable as it is fixed onto the ground |
Depends on the roof conditions and its load bearing capacity |
A solar setup where panels are mounted on structures that are fixed to the ground directly.
These systems are commonly used in large-scale solar parks, utility-grade projects, and expansive commercial installations.
Rooftop Solar Structure is mounted on the roofs of residential, commercial, or industrial buildings, using the available roof space to produce electricity without requiring extra land.
4. Why install Ground Mounting Structures (GMS)?
5. Why install Rooftop Solar Structures?
6. When Should You Choose GMS?
GMS is the best choice if:
7. When Should You Choose Rooftop Solar?
Rooftop solar is the best choice if:
8. Challenges of GMS:
9. Challenges of Rooftop:
10. Conclusion
Both GMS and rooftop solar structures come with their own set of benefits and challenges; the best option depends on your specific project needs, budget, and space availability.
In the end, choosing the right structure is about finding the correct balance between cost, efficiency, and overall output. Understanding these differences will help you make a well-informed decision and get the most value out of your solar investment.
For a utility-scale IPP generating hundreds of megawatts or gigawatts, ground-mounted becomes more cost-efficient per unit of energy despite the higher upfront infrastructure cost. GMS often becomes cheaper when per unit of energy is generated at a large scale because panels can be optimally adjusted and aligned to face the sun the entire day to receive maximum sunlight, generating more energy. Also, panels and equipment are procured in bulk, which drives costs down.
For a homeowner, smaller projects or a factory, a rooftop installation is cheaper and simpler because a rooftop does not need new land and can easily be installed within the roof spac
GMS generates higher total power and energy output per panel because of its better tilt and tracking facility. Usually, it optimizes its position according to the Sun’s changing positions to receive maximum sunlight throughout the day and its entire lifespan, generating more energy output.
Furthermore, Ground Mounted Structures are built on open land, free from shading obstructions from adjacent buildings that commonly reduce the efficiency of rooftop panels. GMS panels also benefit from better natural airflow around them, keeping the panels cooler and performing at a higher efficiency, since solar panels are known to lose output as their temperature rises. This combination of optimal tilt, shade-free position, and intelligent tracking makes GMS the best choice when the primary goal is maximum power generation.
Absolutely! Our commitment to you doesn’t end the moment the system is installed. We are with you at every step along the way — even after the work on the ground is done.
We offer maintenance in the form of our AMCs, i.e., Annual Maintenance Contracts.
We offer comprehensive post-installation support through our dedicated team — an excellent group of trained, experienced solar technicians and engineers whose sole focus is keeping your system running smoothly at its best throughout its entire lifespan.
Maintenance support services offered by us include:
With our AMC, you don’t need to worry about the maintenance of the installed systems. We handle it for you, so you can relax.
Yes, proper land documents and other local permits and approvals are needed for the installation of Ground Mounted Structures (GMS). Once all approvals are granted, the installation is easily completed by our installation team quickly.
