How to Add Ground Mount Solar or a Solar Carport to Your Home

Not every home is ideal for roof-mounted solar. Whether your roof faces the wrong direction, is too shaded, or you're planning a renovation, ground-mounted solar systems and solar carports are smart alternatives that offer serious benefits.

Here’s how to add one to your property in Columbus, Ohio.

1. Choose Between Ground Mount and Solar Carport

Ground Mount Solar:
These systems are installed on open land, typically using a steel frame. They're ideal for properties with yard space and give you full control over the panel's angle and orientation for maximum efficiency.

Solar Carport:
If you don’t have a lot of extra land but do have a driveway or detached garage area, a solar carport gives you energy production and covered parking. It’s a two-in-one upgrade that can also reduce wear on your car.

2. Check Your Zoning and Permit Requirements

In Columbus and surrounding areas, ground mount systems and carports must comply with local building codes and zoning ordinances. That includes:

• Setback distances

• Height limits

• Structural safety compliance

• Electrical permitting

BC Solar takes care of all the paperwork, but we’ll also explain it clearly so you know exactly what’s going on.

3. Evaluate Your Site

We assess your:

• Sunlight exposure throughout the year

• Soil and terrain for secure foundation work

• Available space to ensure proper layout and avoid shading

Even if you think your land won’t work, don’t count it out. We’ve engineered creative solutions for tight and tricky properties.

4. Design Your System

Every system we install is custom-engineered. We’ll consider:

• How much power do you want to offset?

• Your future energy needs (like EV charging)

• Battery backup preferences

• Aesthetic and functional goals (like carport roofing)

We're battery-agnostic and modular, so whether you want a basic backup setup or a full off-grid system, we’ll build it your way.

5. Install and Connect

Most ground mounts and solar carports can be installed in 2–4 days once permits are in. We’ll:

• Prep the ground or concrete base.

• Install the racking and panels.

• Integrate your inverter and optional battery system.

• Connect it to the utility grid (if grid-tied)

You’ll get a full walkthrough when we’re done. And if you ever need help down the road, we’re local, not some 1-800 number.

FAQs

Q: How much land do I need for a ground mount system?
A: Typically, you'll need around 400–600 square feet per 5kW system. We can assess this in a free site visit.

Q: Do solar carports cost more than ground mounts?
A: They can, depending on the carport structure. But you're getting a dual-purpose feature: energy plus sheltered parking.

Q: Can I add batteries later?
A: Absolutely. Our systems are designed to expand. You can start with solar and add storage when it makes sense.

Ready to talk about ground-mounted solar or a carport for your home? We’re here to guide you with honesty, clarity, and quality craftsmanship.

BC Solar
📍 777 Busch Ct, Columbus, OH 43229
📞 (614) 442-9700
🌐 bc. solar