Why Ground-Mount Solar Systems Are the Smart Choice for Farmers
June 4, 2025
When it comes to installing a solar energy system on your farm, one big decision you’ll make is placement: roof-mount vs. ground-mount. For farmers, ground-mount solar – like those featured in our NOREASTER® Micro Solar Farm – offer unmatched advantages in efficiency, installation, maintenance and scalability.
Optimal Ground Mount Solar Placement for the Farm
Efficiency and flexibility are critical when choosing where to install solar systems. Ground-mount solar installations allow you to choose where to place them on the farm and face them in the most optimal direction for sun exposure. They can be placed in an area that if otherwise unproductive or unused. You can also see if agrivoltaics (combining solar energy production with farming activities like grazing or pollinator habitats) could be possible on your farm.
Because the NOREASTER is ground-mounted, we’re able to use bi-facial solar panels that generate up to 30% more electricity from sunlight reflected off the ground. This is especially effective when the ground is snow-covered. As a bonus, the heat from this energy also helps the panels shed the snow faster compared to roof-mount panels. Most of our customers report minimal snow maintenance, even during heavy Eastern Canadian Winters.
Watch the NOREASTER in Action
Ground-Mount Versus Roof-Mount Solar: Installation Insights
Ground-mount solar systems offer greater simplicity and safety. The NOREASTER can be placed on any foundation: helical piles, ground screws, concrete forms or sonotubes. Available as a DIY kit, farmers comfortable with setting up any of these foundations can proceed with installation. Going DIY also means saving on your overall solar energy investment.
There are added risks that come with roof-mount systems. Farmers choosing roof-mount solar systems may risk damaging their roofs depending on the racking provided or even void their roofing warranty altogether. Inspectors may need to be consulted to avoid risk, adding further costs to the installation.
Roof-mount solar also poses biosecurity risks for livestock farms, especially poultry farms. Birds may get under the panels and build nests, which could penetrate the roof and the building, potentially introducing diseases. Nests could also present a fire risk.
Ease of Maintenance and Long-Term Opportunity
Even a low-maintenance solar energy system like the NOREASTER needs occasional servicing. Ground-mount solar panels offer easy, on-the-ground access for inspections, repairs or upgrades. This means a more straightforward service for electricians, inspectors and The Smart Energy Company support team.
The NOREASTER is also designed with your future in mind. Whether you’d like to add more panels or install a battery system, the solar array is easily expanded so your energy generation can grow along with your operations. Because everything is more easily accessible on the ground, scaling your NOREASTER solar energy system is simple.
Roof-mount solar systems typically have restricted access, requiring ladders or lifts for maintenance or repairs. There is also limited expansion potential due to roof space constraints. The lifespan of roof-mount solar systems may also be tied to the lifespan of your roof. Should you need to repair or replace your roof, you will need to remove and reinstall your solar energy system.
Why More Farmers Are Choosing Ground-Mount Solar in Eastern Canada
With fixed solar electricity rates, faster payback periods and long-term cost savings, farmers are turning to ground-mounted systems like the NOREASTER to gain energy independence and increase operational efficiency.
Whether you run a dairy, poultry, pork or specialty crop farm, the right solar solution should work for your land, not against it.
See the Benefits of Ground-Mount Solar on Your Farm
Interested in how a ground-mount solar system could work on your property? Whether you’re in Ontario or the Maritimes, our team is here to help you understand your options, explore available solar incentives and guide you through every step – from feasibility to final installation. Reach out today to book your solar consultation.