1. Pile Ground-Mount Systems
Overview:
Traditional ground-mounted systems secure solar panels in place with steel beams driven into the ground. These systems use mounting rails to support solar panels and are often the go-to solution for open land installations.
Advantages:
- Cost-effective and simple to install.
- Suitable for flat terrains with minimal obstructions.
- Ideal for large-scale solar projects.
Disadvantages:
- Soil conditions must support driven piles.
- Challenging on rocky or debris-filled ground.
Why Venture Steel?
Our traditonal pile mounted systems are precision engineered, together with the fact we extensively research the site to ensure we use the optimal ground mount system for your project.
2. Anchor Ground-Mount Systems
Overview:
The Anchor Ground Mount System is an excellent solution for solar installations requiring shallow embedment. Unlike traditional systems that rely on deep penetration, this design is ideal for varied ground conditions where minimal ground disturbance is necessary. It features four double-pile configurations, providing versatility and stability for photovoltaic (PV) arrays in even the most challenging terrains.
Advantages:
- Shallow embedment minimises ground disturbance, preserving site integrity.
- Ideal for sensitive or uneven ground conditions.
- Customisable double-pile design ensures tailored support for PV panels.
- Resilient against harsh environmental conditions, including high winds.
Disadvantages:
- May require additional design considerations for particularly unstable soils.
- Higher upfront engineering costs due to its customised nature.
Why Venture Steel?
Our Anchor Ground Mount Systems combine advanced engineering with site-specific adaptability. By tailoring the design to the unique needs of each solar project, we ensure secure and long-lasting support for solar panels while maintaining minimal impact on the ground.
3. Ground Screw Systems
Overview:
Ground screw systems offer a flexible mounting solution for challenging soils. Instead of penetrating deeply, screws anchor the racking system securely in the earth.
Advantages:
- Quick installation process, even in high winds or unstable soils.
- Environmentally friendly and reusable.
- Minimal disruption to land or vegetation.
Disadvantages:
- Requires specialised tools for installation.
- Higher upfront costs compared to traditional ground-mounted systems.
Why Venture Steel?
Through our partnership with Radix, our ground screw systems ensure structural integrity and durability, even in high winds.
Want to find out more about Ground screw systems, click here to read our article on screw mounts and their advantages.
4. Ballasted Systems
Overview:
Ballasted ground-mount systems rely on concrete blocks to hold the weight of the panels and stabilise the system without penetrating the soil.
Advantages:
- Perfect for capped landfills or sites where ground penetration is not an option.
- Quick to install and non-invasive.
- Works well on flat roofs and sensitive terrains.
Disadvantages:
- Heavier and may require reinforced transport.
- Not suitable for high-wind areas without additional anchoring.
Why Venture Steel?
We provide ballasted systems designed to handle environmental conditions while maintaining flexibility in panel orientation.
5. Tracking Systems: Single-Axis and Dual-Axis
Overview:
Solar tracking systems follow the sun’s path to maximise energy output. Single-axis systems track east to west, while dual-axis trackers also adjust the tilt angle.
Advantages:
- Increased energy production, especially for large solar arrays.
- Highly efficient for utility-scale solar PV systems.
Disadvantages:
- Higher maintenance and solar panel installation costs.
- Vulnerable to mechanical wear over time.
6. Carports and Canopies
Overview:
Solar carports and canopies act as a dual-purpose mounting structure. They provide shelter and support solar panels in place, making them ideal for commercial solar applications.
Advantages:
- Dual-functionality saves roof space and enhances land use.
- Integrates well with EV charging stations.
- Adds visual appeal to parking areas.
Disadvantages:
- Requires precise engineering and higher upfront investment.
Why Venture Steel?
Our mounting solutions for carports are designed to support solar panels reliably while offering flexibility in panel orientation.
You can find out more about solar panel car ports in our article - Simply click the link.
7. Floating Solar Systems
Overview:
Floating solar systems, or floatovoltaics, are solar panels installed on water surfaces. While not mounted directly on the ground, they use similar principles to secure solar panels.
Advantages:
- Utilises underused water surfaces, saving land for other applications.
- Reduces water evaporation and provides cooling benefits for panels.
Disadvantages:
- High costs for installation and maintenance.
- Limited to specific water bodies.
Why Venture Steel?
Although not our primary focus, our expertise in steel fabrication supports floating systems that meet unique solar racking needs.
Why Choose Venture Steel Ground-Mount Solutions?
At Venture Steel, we understand the intricacies of solar mounting systems. From ground-mounted solar panels to advanced tracking systems, our solutions are designed to ensure your solar panel installation achieves maximum efficiency and longevity.
Key Benefits:
- Precision-engineered systems for diverse terrains.
- Durable materials to support solar panels in harsh conditions.
- Customised solutions for solar energy projects.
Conclusion
Ground-mount solar racking systems are essential for successful solar installations. By understanding the different types of solar panel mounting systems, you can make informed choices to enhance energy production and streamline the installation process. Venture Steel’s expertise ensures that your solar racking system is tailored to your needs, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution for years to come.
Whether it’s ballasted ground mounts, solar tracking systems, or floating solar solutions, Venture Steel delivers top solar mounting products backed by exceptional engineering. Contact us to explore the different mounting solutions we offer and let us help you achieve your solar energy goals.