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There are three primary designs or types of solar energy systems available on the market: solar roofs, solar panels, and ground-mounted solar systems. We will discuss each of these types in detail, examining which one is better suited for a particular purpose, their market size, how to source these solar panels, and more. Continue reading and expanding your knowledge.
According to Precedence Research, the global solar energy market was valued at 255 billion USD in 2024. By the end of 2025, it is expected to reach the value of 296 billion USD. By 2034, it would become a 1,146 billion USD industry with a CAGR of 16.20%.
Asia Pacific generated more than 64% of the revenue in the solar energy solution industry in 2024.
The comparison table below will help you understand the difference between solar panels installed on the ground versus roofs and enable you to choose the best one for your home or other commercial buildings' installation purposes.
|
Ground-Mounted Solar Systems |
Roof-Mounted Solar Panels |
Solar Roofs (Shingles/Tiles) |
|
Installed on open land or backyard space |
Installed on existing building rooftops |
Integrated directly into the roof, replacing traditional roofing |
|
Panels can be tilted and oriented for maximum sun exposure |
Limited by roof angle, direction, and available space |
Seamless design, no separate panels needed |
|
High – optimized placement and tilt improve performance |
Good – depends on roof condition and sun exposure |
Slightly less efficient than standard solar panels |
|
Properties with large unused land |
Homes or businesses with strong, sunny roofs |
New constructions or roof replacements where aesthetics matter |
|
Requires more space and higher installation costs (structure + land prep) |
Less flexible than ground mounts; may need roof strengthening |
Very expensive, limited availability compared to panels |
As the name suggests, ground-mounted solar panels are those that are directly installed on the ground using metal racking structures, rather than being fixed to roofs. Such solar systems are best suited for homes with backyards, open land, or unused land areas.
Advanced ground-mounted solar panels also feature solar trackers, which automatically adjust their movement with the sun to maximize energy production throughout the day. SMA Sunny Central / Sunny Tripower inverters are known for their advanced and efficient solar systems.
Ground-mounted solar panels offer maximum energy efficiency because of the angles and directions of the panels. These solar systems produce more power than solar roof systems. These solar panels are not limited by roof size, shape, or shading, as they can be placed anywhere the conditions are ideal.
These solar panels are suitable for small-scale residential setups to large-scale commercial solar farms and are easily expandable. Aside from their functionality, these solar panels are easy to maintain, clean, and inspect due to their accessibility. The primary drawback of a ground-mounted solar system is that high installation costs and frequent maintenance are required.
Solar roof systems use solar shingles or tiles that replace traditional roofing materials. These systems blend seamlessly into the roof design, serving as both a roof for the homes and a system for generating electricity. These solar roofs are designed to capture the sunlight while maintaining the aesthetic look of the house intact. Tesla Solar Roof and other emerging solar shingle brands are well known for combining roofing durability with clean energy generation.
Solar shingles resemble regular roofing materials, which is ideal for homeowners who prefer a natural design over the bulkier appearance of rooftop panels. They serve as both a weather-protecting roof and an energy-generating solar system, reducing the need for two separate installations.
These systems can last for decades, adding significant property value and appeal to eco-conscious homebuyers. Many solar shingles are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions such as hail, heavy snow, and high winds.
Solar roofs are significantly more expensive than traditional rooftop solar panels, primarily because they require a complete roof replacement. Only a handful of manufacturers produce solar shingles, making them less widely available than standard solar panels. Experts are required for installation, and fewer contractors are trained to handle solar shingles compared to rooftop panel systems.
Solar roof systems are best for premium homes, luxury projects, and new constructions where the homeowner is already planning a roof installation or replacement. They are also a strong option for long-term homeowners who value both sustainability and aesthetics. These systems appeal to property owners who want clean energy without compromising on design or curb appeal.
Traditional rooftop-mounted solar systems utilize standard photovoltaic (PV) panels, which are installed on top of an existing roof structure with racking and mounting equipment. This is the most common and widely adopted form of solar installation worldwide. Rooftop panels can be installed on various roof types, including flat, sloped, and metal roofs, and are typically tilted to capture maximum sunlight. They work in conjunction with an inverter system to convert the captured solar energy into usable electricity for the home or business.
Rooftop solar panels are generally more affordable compared to solar roof systems or ground-mounted options. They require less construction work since they are attached directly to an existing roof. These solar panels have been in use for decades, making them a trusted and reliable option with well-documented performance.
Hanwha Q-Cells panels are one of the best-selling products. Components, installers, and maintenance services are readily available in most regions, providing buyers with multiple supplier and contractor options. Systems can be customized to meet the energy demands of small households or scaled up for larger commercial buildings. Many regions offer tax credits, rebates, or net metering programs that make rooftop solar panels even more financially attractive.
Solar panels also have a few challenges that you might face. If the roof is old, damaged, or nearing the end of its lifespan, it may require renovation before solar panels can be installed. Panels are restricted by the slope and orientation of the existing roof, which may not always provide the best sunlight exposure.
The available roof area can limit the number of panels that can be installed, which may not fully meet higher energy needs. Since panels are installed on roofs, cleaning and servicing may be more difficult compared to ground-mounted systems.
Traditional rooftop solar panels are the most practical choice for households, small businesses, and commercial properties with reliable roof structures. They are ideal for property owners who want a cost-effective, well-established solution with proven results. Rooftop panels are particularly suitable for urban and suburban areas where land space is limited, making them the go-to option for most homeowners entering the solar market.
Choosing between solar roofs, rooftop panels, and ground-mounted systems depends on your space, budget, and energy needs. Solar roofs offer premium aesthetics and long-term value, while rooftop panels remain the most cost-effective and widely adopted option, and ground-mounted systems provide maximum efficiency for larger spaces. No single option fits all; each has unique strengths. By carefully evaluating these factors and sourcing from trusted B2B marketplaces, buyers can make the most informed investment in clean, renewable energy.
