The core of choosing the optimal installation method for ground-mounted solar panels lies in making a comprehensive decision based on topographical conditions, local climate, module layout, and cost budget.

1. Mainstream installation methods and applicable scenarios

Fixed inclination installation: It features a simple structure and the lowest cost, suitable for areas with flat terrain and stable lighting conditions. The inclination of the bracket is set according to the local latitude (usually equal to or close to the latitude), which maximizes annual power generation and has extremely low maintenance costs.

Single-axis tracking installation: The bracket tracks the sun's eastward rise and westward fall along the horizontal axis, generating 10%-20% more electricity than a fixed tilt angle. It is suitable for scenarios with abundant sunlight resources and open terrain (unobstructed). The disadvantage is higher cost and regular maintenance of the tracking system.

Dual-axis tracking installation: It can simultaneously track the solar azimuth and elevation angles, generating 20%-30% more electricity than fixed-angle installations. It is suitable for large-scale power stations with high illumination and extremely high electricity generation requirements, but it also has the highest cost and requires higher terrain flatness and maintenance capabilities.

Adjustable tilt installation: The tilt angle of the bracket can be manually adjusted according to the season (e.g., larger in winter and smaller in summer), balancing power generation across different seasons. The cost is between that of a fixed tilt and single-axis tracking. It is suitable for scenarios with significant seasonal variations in sunlight, limited budgets, but a desire to increase power generation.

2. Core selection principles

Prioritize terrain matching: For flat terrain, fixed, single-axis/dual-axis tracking can be selected; for hilly or sloping terrain, priority should be given to fixing the inclination angle (which can be adjusted in sections) to avoid the installation difficulty of complex tracking systems.

Considering climatic conditions: In windy and snowstorm-prone areas, priority should be given to fixed tilt angles (as the structure is more stable and has stronger wind and snow resistance); the tracking system needs additional windproof design, which increases costs.

Balancing power generation and cost: For small-scale projects (such as households and small farms), a fixed tilt angle is recommended (offering the best cost-performance ratio); for large-scale power stations and regions with sufficient sunlight, single-axis tracking can be considered (offering a better input-output ratio); dual-axis tracking is only recommended for scenarios where there is an extreme pursuit of power generation and sufficient budget.

Considering obstruction factors: When there are trees and buildings around, a fixed inclination angle is easier to avoid obstruction by adjusting the spacing; if there is obstruction in the tracking system, the effect of increasing power generation will be significantly reduced.

3. Key Considerations

Soil conditions affect foundation design: concrete pile foundations are required in soft soil areas, while spiral piles can be used in hard soil/rock areas. The stability of the foundation directly determines the safety of the installation method.

Compliance requirements: It is necessary to comply with local land use policies and photovoltaic power station construction specifications to avoid approval issues due to improper installation methods.