1. Preparation for Installing a Ground-Mount Solar System

Thorough preparation before installation is critical to the success of the project.

1. Site Selection

Choosing a suitable site is essential. The site should allow solar panels to receive maximum sunlight, taking into account terrain conditions, shading from nearby buildings, and underground utility lines. Prioritize open, south-facing areas without obstructions to maximize generation efficiency.

2. Obtaining Permits

Before starting construction, be sure to apply for installation permits from local authorities. Even the smallest PV system requires proper approval and must meet building setback requirements – most cities and counties require a minimum distance of at least 5 feet (≈1.5 m) between the structure and property lines. If located near roads or in wildfire-prone rural areas, setbacks may be as high as 30 feet (≈9 m).

3. Safety & Clearance

Local regulations may also require fencing around ground-mount systems or a 10-foot (≈3 m) vegetation-free zone around the system. Additionally, avoid flood zones and washout areas to prevent equipment damage during heavy rains or spring snowmelt.

2. Installation Steps for Ground-Mount Solar Systems

The following are the mainstream installation steps for 2022. Following these procedures will ensure safety and stability.

Step 1: Foundation Drilling

Drill foundation holes according to design requirements. The diameter and depth of the holes depend on the height of the solar racking and soil quality. Ensure the hole spacing matches the racking layout.

Step 2: Installing Anchor Bolts

Insert anchor bolts into the foundation holes, ensuring they are vertical and level. Bolt size and quantity should follow the racking specifications and design requirements.

Step 3: Racking Assembly

Assemble the racking components in order according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, the racking consists of upright posts, beams, and diagonal braces. During assembly, do not fully tighten all fasteners until after overall alignment, then tighten uniformly.

Step 4: Installing Foundation Bases

Mount and position the racking onto the anchor bolts. Use a level to ensure the racking is horizontal and vertical.

Step 5: Installing Solar Panels

Install the solar panels onto the racking according to design requirements. Panels are typically fixed to the racking using专用 clips or bolts.

Step 6: Installing Racking Accessories

Install accessories as needed, such as cable trays and junction boxes.

Step 7: Full Inspection & Adjustment

After installation, use instruments and tools to conduct a comprehensive inspection and adjustment, ensuring racking stability and safety.

Step 8: Connecting Cables

Connect cables from the solar panels to the inverter, battery bank, or other equipment.

Step 9: System Testing

Once installation is complete, perform necessary testing and commissioning to ensure the PV system operates normally.

Tip: Strictly follow safety regulations during installation. If you are unfamiliar or unsure about any step, seek professional assistance.

3. Foundation Fixing Methods for Different Ground Types

Different ground types require different fixing solutions.

Concrete Ground: If the concrete thickness exceeds 100 mm and has sufficient pullout resistance, use expansion bolts to fix the racking base directly to the ground. Otherwise, cast concrete foundations on site and fix the racking onto concrete piers to increase bond strength and pullout resistance.

Soil Ground: For hard soil, cast concrete piers directly. For soft soil, use ground screw foundations or driven-pile racking driven 2–3 meters deep into the soil to prevent overturning or settlement, ensuring long-term stability.

4. National Subsidy Policies in 2022

In 2022, the national subsidy policy for new PV projects changed. The National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the National Energy Administration (NEA) announced that starting in 2022, new PV projects would no longer receive national subsidies. However, some local governments introduced regional subsidies. For example, after Zhejiang Province cancelled its provincial subsidy, it encouraged local subsidies – several cities including Ningbo, Wenzhou, Shaoxing, Quzhou, and Lishui introduced such policies. Shanghai offers incentives of RMB 0.05–0.10/kWh for conventional PV projects.

Additionally, the NEA issued the Household PV Construction and Operation Guide (2022 Edition), which systematically explains seven aspects: documentation, grid connection, construction, revenue, fraud prevention, safety, and benefits, providing authoritative guidance for PV users.

5. Project Registration & Grid-Connection Process

According to the NEA guide, the grid-connection process is as follows:

Customer submits documents and completes grid-connection application → Grid company initiates application → Grid company provides system access plan → PV system construction → Grid company inspects and accepts → Grid company connects to the grid.

After project completion, once the grid company receives the inspection and commissioning application, it typically completes meter installation, power purchase agreement signing, and grid-connection inspection & commissioning within 7 working days.

6. Investment Cost & Revenue Analysis

Example: A 20 kW fully grid-fed system in Jiangsu Province with 1,250 annual generation hours produces 25,000 kWh/year. Under full grid feed, annual revenue = 9,775 RMB (feed-in tariff 0.391 RMB/kWh × 25,000 kWh). Under “self-use + surplus feed”, assuming 600 kWh self-use per year, annual revenue ≈ 9,840 RMB. In rural areas, a real case of a 79.17 kW household PV system with a total investment of 277,100 RMB achieved stable annual revenue above 40,000 RMB, with payback period estimated at 6–6.5 years. The PV panels have a 25-year warranty, providing profitable operation for many years after payback.

7. Important Considerations for Ground-Mount Installation

1. Tilt Angle Selection

For flat ground, the ideal orientation is true south. For tilt angle, approximately 30 degrees in southern regions and 40 degrees in northern regions. The bottom edge of the front row of panels should be at least 18 inches (≈46 cm) above ground.

2. Soil Condition Assessment

Soil must be stable and capable of supporting the racking structure. Excavation and foundation work may be required to secure the ground-mount racking.

3. Compliance

Ground-mount installations must comply with local zoning and building codes. Urban or suburban projects may have stricter requirements – research compliance in advance.

4. Wind & Corrosion Resistance

The racking structure must use durable, corrosion-resistant, UV-resistant materials. In heavy snow areas, choose adequate height to prevent long-term snow accumulation at the bottom of modules.