How Much Space Do You Need for Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?

When you're considering ground-mounted solar panels for your home or business in Columbus, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“How much space do I need for a ground mount solar system?”

Here’s the short answer:
You’ll need about 300 to 400 square feet of clear space for every 5kW of solar capacity. That means a typical 10kW residential system would need around 1,000 to 1,200 square feet. Larger commercial systems may require a half-acre to a full acre or more, depending on size and layout.

What Affects How Much Space You Need?

Every property is different. At BC Solar, we don’t do cookie-cutter installs — and that’s especially true with ground mounts.

Here are some of the biggest factors we evaluate:

• System size: More panels = more space.

• Shading: We avoid tree cover and other obstructions.

• Orientation & tilt: To get optimal sun exposure.

• Soil & terrain: Slope, drainage, and soil stability matter.

• Setbacks and zoning: We always comply with local codes.

Even if you’re tight on open space, don’t rule it out. We’ve designed many systems around barns, fence lines, and property edges to make use of otherwise unused land.

Residential Example

If you’re a Columbus homeowner looking to offset your electric bill, here’s what to expect:

• 7kW to 10kW system (typical for a medium-sized home)

• Requires 1,000–1,200 sq. ft.

• Can often fit behind garages, along driveways, or in a backyard field

Commercial Example

Let’s say you run a warehouse or small industrial facility:

• 50kW system = ~6,000–8,000 sq. ft. (about 1/5 of an acre)

• 100kW+ system = ½ to 1+ acre depending on battery needs and spacing

These systems can often be placed on underused lots, stormwater buffer zones, or adjacent parcels.

We Make It Work — Without Disrupting Your Property

Whether you’ve got a few extra acres or just enough space behind your barn, our job is to maximize your solar output while minimizing disruption. We custom-design every ground mount to:

• Avoid trenching through active areas

• Protect your landscaping or farmland

• Meet city and county zoning requirements

• Plan for future expansion if desired

FAQ

How much space do I need for a 10kW ground mount system?

You’ll typically need about 1,000–1,200 square feet. That’s roughly the size of a tennis court.

Can I put solar panels on a sloped field?

Yes. In fact, sloped ground can often help improve sun exposure. We custom-engineer the racking to match your terrain.

Do I need to clear trees or brush?

Usually, yes — at least in the immediate area where panels will sit. We’ll help you evaluate the trade-offs and handle any site clearing if needed.

Do ground mounts cost more than roof systems?

They can, but not always. While ground mounts require additional structure and excavation, they often allow for easier maintenance, better airflow, and ideal panel angles — which can boost your long-term energy yield.

Ready to see if a ground mount system makes sense for your home or business?
Give us a call at (614) 442-9700 or visit bc.solar.

We’ll walk your property and build a system that works — honestly, efficiently, and with your goals in mind.