Ground mounted solar for UK businesses and farms
Ground mounted solar systems are installed on frames anchored into the ground, rather than on rooftops. They are ideal for businesses with available land, including farms, distribution centres, industrial estates and rural businesses.
When to consider ground mounted
- Your roof is unsuitable (asbestos, structural limits, listed building)
- You have unused land adjacent to your premises
- You want a larger system than your roof can accommodate
- You are an agricultural business with barn land or marginal fields
Planning permission
Ground mounted solar arrays typically require planning permission from your local authority. For agricultural land, permitted development rights may apply for systems up to certain thresholds, but this varies by local authority. Your installer will advise on planning requirements for your specific site.
Key planning considerations include visual impact on the landscape, proximity to residential properties, ecological surveys (for ground-nesting birds), and agricultural land classification. Grade 1 and 2 agricultural land faces stricter scrutiny.
Installation and mounting
Ground mounted systems use either driven piles (steel posts hammered into the ground) or concrete foundations. Driven piles are faster and cause minimal ground disturbance, making them suitable for agricultural sites. The panels sit at a fixed tilt angle, typically 25–35 degrees south-facing for maximum annual output in the UK.
Agrivoltaics: dual-use land
Agrivoltaic systems combine solar generation with continued agricultural use. Sheep grazing under elevated panels is common. Some systems use raised panels to allow machinery access for arable farming. This dual-use approach can strengthen planning applications by demonstrating the land remains productive.
REAP grants for agricultural solar
The Rural England Prosperity Fund provides grants of up to 50% for rural businesses investing in renewable energy. Agricultural businesses are well-placed to access this funding. Your installer can help identify eligible schemes.
Get ground mounted solar quotes
nu.energy connects you with MCS-accredited installers experienced in ground mounted systems. Free, no-obligation quotes within 24 hours.