Ground-Mounted Solar Plant
A ground-mounted solar plant, also known as a solar park, is a photovoltaic installation that is not installed on a building but is set up directly on open ground. Unlike rooftop plants, which are often limited in size due to architectural constraints, ground-mounted plants provide the opportunity to install large solar modules over extensive areas. This allows for significantly higher electricity generation compared to rooftop plants.
Site Selection and Setup
For the establishment of a ground-mounted solar plant, large, flat, and preferably sunny locations are suitable. Often, agricultural land that is no longer in use, commercial areas, or decommissioned industrial sites are utilized. The solar modules are mounted on special frames that allow for optimal orientation toward the sun. In some cases, the modules are also equipped with tracking plants to follow the sun's position throughout the day, further increasing energy yields.
Advantages and Disadvantages
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Advantages:
- High electricity yields due to large installation area
- Flexibility in site selection
- Possibility of combining with other uses (e.g., agri-photovoltaics)
- Contribution to the energy transition and climate protection
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Disadvantages:
- High land requirements
- Possible landscape changes
- Dependence on weather conditions
- Higher initial investment compared to rooftop plants
Application Areas
Ground-mounted solar plants are utilized by both large energy suppliers and municipalities as well as companies for electricity generation. They play an important role in decentralized energy supply and can make a significant contribution to the energy transition.
Relevant Keywords: photovoltaics, solar park, solar modules, energy transition, renewable energies