Ground and Pole Mounted Systems
Photovoltaic systems can be installed in many different ways. While smaller systems are still most commonly found on rooftops, pole and ground-mounted systems are becoming very popular.
In rural environments, ground mounted systems can provide impressive returns. Commonly solar ground-mounted systems involve a steel or aluminum frame, often one that could be adopted for building use, attached to a concrete foundation. In areas with high wind considerations, ground mounted (non-pole) options are ideal.
Pole and some ground mounted systems have a higher capital cost because of the added need for a foundation. However, pole and ground-mounted systems have more opportunities for incorporating tracking to maximize production than do roof-mounted systems. Pole mounted systems are frames which mount the solar array at the top of a pole. One advantage of pole mounting systems is that they allow the panels to be directed and pitched in order to catch the most sunlight. These can be further enhanced with tracking systems which follow the natural track of the sun. The pole is typically a 40 gage steel pipe which is cemented in the ground. Usually about one third of the pipe is below the surface to ensure strength and stability against high winds. Most pole mounted systems can withstand 80 to 120 mile per hour winds.
These systems can also be connected into a grid-tie system, selling energy back to the power grid. The OPA is considering a lower feed-in-tarriff rate of 58.8c/ KWh for ground mounted systems only, instead of 80.2c/KWh. The OPA is conducting a 30-day consultation period on the new price category and invites proponents to submit feedback by August 3, 2010. Ground-mounted microFIT applications will be processed following the 30-day comment period. Please be reminded that the new proposed price change is for microFIT ground-mounted PV systems only, and does not affect the rate for roof-mounted PV systems. During this time the microFIT application intake will continue. Under the proposed new price category, ground-mounted microFIT applicants who already have an executed contract or received a conditional contract offer from the OPA will receive the original price of 80.2 ¢/kWh, consistent with the microFIT rules. All other ground-mounted microFIT projects, including those for which an application has been submitted but have not yet received a contract or conditional contract offer, will receive the price following consultations on the proposed 58.8 ¢/kWh. Ground-mounted microFIT applications will be processed following the 30-day comment period. The OPA will hold a number of webinars to discuss the introduction of this proposed new price category and answer questions. The OPA will also accept comments by e-mail and regular mail. Details on how to participate in the webinars or submit comments can be found on the website: microfit.powerauthority.on.ca.
Installing a ground system can support surprising electrical demand and could be suitable for a number of agricultural needs, as well as providing a potential source of revenue. Ground mounted solar can provide ease of access, which is vital when maintaining a system or when one considers the limited renewable options accessible to homeowners.
