Cost of Commercial Ground Mounted Solar Panels: A Complete Guide for UK Businesses
Across Scotland, England, and Wales, commercial and industrial property owners are increasingly considering ground mounted solar panels as a long-term strategy to cut energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and secure energy independence.
But before you commit to a ground mounted solar PV system, you need clarity on one question:
How much do ground mounted commercial solar panels cost in the UK?
This guide breaks down pricing, components, installation factors, savings, ROI, planning permission, and why choosing the right commercial solar panel installers, such as LowEnergy Services, is critical to maximising performance and long-term value.
What Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
Ground mounted solar panels, also called ground mounted PV panels or field mounted solar panels, are solar arrays that are installed at ground level rather than on roofs.
Businesses choose them when they:
- Have large open land or unused fields
- Need higher electricity output than a roof can support
- Operate in agriculture, logistics, retail or manufacturing
- Want easier access for maintenance
- Prefer flexible system expansion
A ground mounted solar panel system can be built using:
- Fixed-Tilt Ground Mounts: Panels are set at an optimal angle for year-round generation.
- Tracking Systems: Trackers follow the sun’s movement and increase energy output by 15–30%.
- Solar Panel Floor Mounts / Low-Profile Arrays\: Used for smaller commercial installations or restricted sites.
These systems are ideal for business solar panel installation because they offer excellent scalability, from 50 kW commercial systems to multi-MW solar farms.
Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost (UK 2025 Guide)
Average cost for commercial ground mounted solar in the UK:
- £800 – £1,300 per kW installed (depending on scale, land conditions, mounting system, and grid connection)
These prices include ground solar installation, mounting structures, grounding a solar panel system, commercial-grade PV modules, and inverters.
Why are ground mounted systems more expensive than roof-mounted ones?
Because they require:
- Groundworks
- Foundations or piling
- Trenching for cables
- Specialist commercial solar installers
- Land surveys and structural assessments
But the increased cost often delivers a better ROI, because ground arrays can be oriented for maximum production and scaled as needed.
What Affects Ground Mounted Solar Panels Cost?
Type of Ground Mount System:
- Fixed-tilt is more affordable.
- Tracking systems cost more but produce more energy.
Land Quality & Groundworks:
- Soft land = easier installation.
- Rocky or uneven land increases cost.
System Size:
- Larger systems deliver economies of scale with lower cost per kW.
Cable Runs & Grid Connection
- Remote or difficult grid access increases installation cost.
Panel Type (Commercial PV Panels)
- Premium panels = higher upfront cost but more energy generation.
Labour & Installation:
Choosing experienced commercial solar panel contractors ensures:
- correct ground mounted solar PV installation
- long-term durability
- regulatory compliance
This is where LowEnergy Services specialises, delivering full-scale commercial PV installations across Scotland, England, and Wales.
Ground Mounted Solar Panels for Businesses: Why They’re Worth the Investment?
Lower Energy Costs:
- Cut electricity bills by 40–70% depending on system size.
Strong ROI (3–6 years):
Commercial systems pay for themselves quickly due to:
- rising grid prices
- high daytime business demand
- large-scale capacity
Energy Independence:
- Stabilise costs for 25+ years.
Massive Sustainability Benefits:
- Demonstrate corporate responsibility and reduce carbon footprint.
More Flexible Than Roof Systems:
Installations are not limited by:
- roof space
- structural loading
- building orientation
Easier Maintenance:
- Ground level access simplifies cleaning, repairs, and inspections.
Ground Mounted Solar Panels for Commercial, Industrial & Agricultural Use
Ground solar arrays are ideal for:
- Industrial solar panels for factories
- Commercial solar panels for business parks
- Solar panels for industrial buildings
- Retail and warehouse premises
- Farms and agricultural land
Whether you need non roof mounted solar panels or full-scale industrial solar panel installation, a custom ground array can deliver high-performance energy production.
Do You Need Planning Permission for Ground Mounted Solar Panels?
Yes, in most commercial projects.
For ground mounted solar panels planning permission, local councils assess:
- visual impact
- land type
- environmental considerations
- glint and glare
- nearby roads and properties
We at LowEnergy Services manage the full planning process for clients across:
This includes surveys, feasibility studies, drawings, and environmental assessments.
Are Ground Mounted Solar Panels Suitable for a PPA?
Yes. Many businesses choose ground mounted solar panels PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) options to remove upfront costs.
With a Solar PPA:
- £0 capital investment
- Pay only for electricity generated
- Supplier covers installation, maintenance, and upkeep
This is an excellent option for:
- large industrial sites
- commercial estates
- landowners with unused land
Conclusion: Is Ground Mounted Solar Worth the Cost?
Absolutely. With rising grid energy prices, government support, and rapid payback periods, a ground mounted solar panel system remains one of the best investments a business can make.
Whether you need:
- large-scale ground mounted solar panels in Scotland, England or Wales
- commercial solar panels for industrial buildings
- a bespoke ground solar array
- or commercial solar panel installers with national coverage
LowEnergy Services delivers reliable, cost-effective systems designed for long-term savings. Get in touch today!
Why Choose LowEnergy Services as Your Commercial Solar Installers?
LowEnergy Services is a trusted leader in commercial solar installation companies across the UK, specialising in:
- ground mounted solar PV
- commercial and industrial solar
- large-scale PV systems
- solar panels for business and commercial buildings
- full design, planning, installation, and maintenance
What sets us apart:
- Years of experience in commercial solar installers
- Accredited engineers
- Full compliance with UK planning and grid regulations
- High-efficiency PV modules and inverters
- End-to-end project delivery
- Excellent ROI modelling and performance analysis
If you’re considering solar panels for commercial buildings, industrial solar panels, or a full commercial solar panel installation, we provide tailored solutions across Scotland, England, and Wales.
Common Questions About Ground Mounted Commercial Solar Panels
- Are ground mounted PV systems better than roof panels?
For many commercial and industrial properties, yes. - How much land is needed?
Rough guide: 1 acre = 400 kW of solar capacity (approx.) - How long do commercial ground solar systems last?
25–30 years for panels
10–15 years for inverters - What is the difference between ground solar panels and roof panels?
Ground panels offer maximum design freedom; roof panels rely on building limitations.












