Installing a ground-mounted solar panel farm offers an interesting opportunity to enhance land value and contribute to the energy transition. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding the procedures, technical and regulatory aspects, as well as the financial considerations associated with such a project. Whether you are a landowner or an entity looking to invest in renewable energy, this guide will help you gain clarity on setting up a ground-mounted photovoltaic power plant.
Key Points to Remember for a Ground-Mounted Project
- A ground-mounted photovoltaic farm involves installing solar panels over a large area of land to produce electricity, often fed into the national grid.
- Various types of land can be adapted, including industrial brownfield sites, agricultural land (via agrivoltaics), and unexploited plots, offering land value enhancement.
- Ground-mounted installation allows for great flexibility in choosing the orientation and tilt of the panels to optimise solar production.
- It is important to note that there are no government grants for ground-mounted photovoltaic installations, unlike rooftop installations.
- Choosing an experienced partner is essential for managing technical and administrative aspects, as well as grid connection, thereby ensuring the project’s profitability and longevity.
Understanding the Potential of a Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic Farm
Ground-mounted photovoltaic farms represent a major opportunity in the current energy landscape. They allow for the transformation of vast, often underutilised, areas into green electricity production units. This approach fully aligns with the energy transition and offers interesting prospects for land value enhancement.
A ground-mounted solar power plant, commonly known as a photovoltaic farm, is a large-scale installation comprising numerous solar panels arranged on the ground. Unlike rooftop installations, these farms are designed for industrial-scale electricity production, often measured in megawatts. The electricity produced is generally fed into the national electricity grid. The panels, connected by cables, transmit direct current to a technical room. This room houses inverters that convert this current into alternating current, and then transformers that adjust the voltage for grid connection. The entire setup is secured by fences for safety reasons.
The installation of ground-mounted solar panels offers a concrete solution for revitalising previously underutilised land. This can include industrial brownfield sites, artificialised land whose use has ceased, or agricultural plots. These installations allow owners to generate stable rental income while contributing to renewable energy production. Renting a hectare of land can thus yield between €1,500 and €10,000 per year, depending on the nature of the land and market conditions. It is important to accurately assess the solar potential of your plot to maximise returns on investment.
Agrivoltaics, which combines solar energy production with agricultural activities, is a particularly promising approach. It allows for shared land use, where solar panels are installed in a way that does not hinder crops or grazing. This synergy optimises space and can even improve agricultural yields in some cases, for example by protecting crops from climatic hazards. Current regulations govern these projects to ensure that a primary agricultural activity is maintained and that installations are reversible. The objective is to guarantee genuine complementarity between solar energy and agriculture, without excessive artificialisation of the soil. Assessing solar potential is a key step for the success of these projects.
The installation of ground-mounted solar panels is a process that requires an in-depth analysis of the site and local conditions. It represents an opportunity for land value enhancement and a contribution to the energy transition, but requires a good understanding of the technical and regulatory aspects.
Identifying the Ideal Land for a Solar Installation
Finding the right location is the first step for a successful photovoltaic farm project. Not all land is suitable for solar panel installation; careful analysis is required to ensure potential and feasibility. The objective is to maximise sun exposure while minimising technical and regulatory constraints. It is important to choose your land carefully to optimise the installation’s efficiency and profitability. Good planning from the outset helps avoid costly problems later on and ensures the project is viable in the long term. It should be noted that France generally offers favourable sunshine, but a precise study of each site is essential to assess the actual sunshine rate and solar potential. The location must be clear, away from shadows cast by trees, buildings, or terrain. For an initial approach, you can consult guides that help find land suitable for photovoltaic power plants identify the right land.
Ground-mounted solar projects can be installed on a wide variety of land, offering great flexibility. Industrial brownfield sites, former quarries, polluted land, or urban wasteland are excellent options. These often neglected sites find new life through renewable energy production, thus contributing to the energy transition of the regions. Agrivoltaics also opens up interesting prospects, allowing for dual use of agricultural land. This involves combining solar energy production with agricultural activities, such as grazing or certain crops. Current regulations govern this practice to ensure that it maintains a primary agricultural activity, remains reversible, and does not negatively impact crop yields. Large crop plots, meadows, a few hectares of fallow land, or even land degraded by past activity are all possibilities. It is even possible to consider installations on bodies of water with floating solar panels.
The land area is a determining factor. Generally, a solar farm spans several hectares to accommodate a large number of panels and maximise electricity production. A minimum area of 1 to 3 hectares is often required for large-scale projects. Sunshine is, of course, the most important criterion. A detailed exposure study allows for the assessment of the site’s solar potential. Flat land or land with a gentle slope should be preferred, and above all, it must be ensured that they are not shaded by natural or built elements. Proximity to an electricity grid connection point is also a major economic advantage, as it significantly reduces connection costs. The absence of shade is paramount to ensure optimal solar panel efficiency maximise sun exposure.
Degraded or artificialised land represents an interesting opportunity for the development of photovoltaic projects. These sites, which have lost their initial purpose or are marked by past activity (such as a former landfill or an industrial brownfield site), can be rehabilitated through the installation of solar power plants. This approach not only allows for the valorisation of often underused or unused spaces but also contributes to the depollution or restoration of these areas. The installation of solar panels on such land can even improve its environmental quality. For example, a former industrial site can be covered with panels, thereby reducing runoff and erosion. It is important to note that even land with a complex history, such as a former landfill, can be considered, provided specific standards are met and necessary studies are carried out projects on former sites.
Assessing soil quality and any residual pollution is a key step for degraded land. Specific studies may be necessary to ensure the compatibility of the installation with the site’s environment and to guarantee the safety of operations.
Technical Aspects of Ground-Mounted Installation
One of the major advantages of ground-mounted photovoltaic installations lies in the freedom to choose a perfectly adapted orientation. A due south orientation is generally aimed for, to capture maximum radiation. The recommended tilt is often around 30 to 35° relative to the ground. This flexibility, absent in rooftop installations, helps avoid any shading problems due to nearby trees or buildings, optimising solar production. A well-exposed site therefore maximises efficiency.
Simple guidelines for tilt:
| Region | Optimal Tilt |
|---|---|
| Northern France | 35° |
| Southern France | 28° |
For more details on the correct installation of supports and the importance of an unshaded site, it is advisable to consult the optimal panel location.
Fixing and Ballasting Systems for Stability
The anchoring of structures to the ground must be solid, as the panels are directly exposed to the elements. Two main methods exist:
- Fixing with piles or foundation screws: suitable for soft and less stony soils.
- Ballasting with slabs or trays: recommended on land where drilling is to be avoided.
- Metal or wooden support frames depending on the environment, desired strength, and sometimes for cost reasons.
The selection also depends on the terrain configuration: if the soil is unstable or rocky, ballasting will often be preferred.
Adapting the fixing structure to each type of soil offers the best lifespan for your installation and minimises the risks of movement or tilting during unfavourable conditions.
Managing Constraints Related to Wind Load
A photovoltaic farm is particularly exposed to gusts. If the structure is poorly chosen or installed, the panels can move, or even detach. This is often the main constraint during technical design. To limit risks, it is necessary to:
- Position the supports at an appropriate angle and consider protection against squalls.
- Choose sufficient materials and weight for the structures (ballast or reinforced anchoring).
- Respect safety distances between panel rows to avoid the sail effect.
For an overview of the key steps – from choosing supports to anchoring, not forgetting electrical safety – you can read the explanation on the simplicity of ground mounting.
Mastering these technical aspects guarantees the safety, durability, and production quality of your ground-mounted solar project.
The Regulatory Framework and Necessary Authorisations
The development of ground-mounted photovoltaic farms falls within the framework of the Multi-annual Energy Programme (PPE), a steering tool that anticipates the share of renewable energies in the national energy mix. Regulations strongly guide the implementation of projects on artificialised or degraded land, leaving agricultural or natural areas as regulated exceptions.
- Priority given to already urbanised areas or those without a strong agricultural purpose
- Systematic consideration of environmental and biodiversity protection laws
- Need to comply with European and national legislation concerning renewable electricity production
A ground-mounted solar power plant project must adapt to several regularly evolving standards; it is important to follow regulatory updates to anticipate future constraints.
Administrative procedures vary according to the installation’s power and the nature of the land. Here is a summary as of 23/09/2025:
| Project Power | Planning Procedure (outside protected areas) |
|---|---|
| P < 3 kWp, height < 1.8 m | No authorisation |
| 3 kWp ≤ P < 3 MWp | Prior declaration |
| P ≥ 3 MWp | Building permit + impact study |
In certain cases – for example, if the land is located in a reserve, a classified site, or near a historical monument – a permit will always be mandatory, even for the smallest capacities. Furthermore, an environmental assessment may be required depending on the size or location of the project.
Common steps:
- Site identification and local pre-validation
- Preparation of the file (plans, impact studies, etc.)
- Submission to the town hall or prefecture
- Review by state services
- Publication and public inquiry for larger projects
- Final authorisation or refusal
The ideal review period is 7 months, but in practice, it can vary.
For more details on technical and administrative compliance, read this information regarding Enedis procedures and installation rules.
SAFER intervenes in projects that may impact agricultural land. It:
- Examines the consequences for agricultural activity
- Can give an opinion, favourable or not, on the change of land use
- Sometimes, pre-empts or assists local authorities and landowners in land management
Their consultation is mandatory if the land is of agricultural origin. Discussions with SAFER often determine the social and territorial feasibility of the project.
Administrative deadlines and dialogue with the various stakeholders are unavoidable realities before any actual implementation of a ground-mounted solar farm.
Administrative Procedures and Grid Connection
Once the land has been identified and the technical aspects defined, it’s time to tackle administrative formalities and grid connection. These steps are absolutely necessary for your photovoltaic farm to produce and inject electricity.
Coordination with Enedis for Technical Study and Connection
The first major step is to contact Enedis, the electricity distribution network operator. You need to submit a connection request to them. Enedis will then carry out a technical study to determine the feasibility of connecting your installation to the existing network, as well as the necessary works. This study will take into account the power of your installation and its location. It is important to prepare this file thoroughly, as it dictates the subsequent operations. Once the study is validated and the quote accepted, connection works can be planned. This process can take several months, so it’s important to anticipate.
Management of Administrative Procedures by Solar Developers
Solar developers play a key role in managing these procedures. They possess the necessary experience and knowledge to successfully complete planning and connection procedures. This includes submitting building permits or prior declarations of works to local councils, depending on the size and nature of the installation. They also coordinate various interventions, including those by Enedis. Their involvement helps secure the project and optimise timelines. It is often advisable to partner with a professional for this complex phase.
Importance of a Solid File for Energy Producers
The compilation of a complete and precise file is paramount for any solar energy producer. This file must gather all information relating to the project: feasibility study, technical plans, planning permissions, and the connection request. A well-prepared file facilitates review by administrations and Enedis, thereby reducing the risks of delays or refusals. It demonstrates the seriousness and preparation of the project. The quality of your file is a guarantee of success for your photovoltaic installation. You must ensure that all required documents are present and comply with current regulations, particularly regarding planning permissions.
Administrative procedures can seem complex, but good preparation and professional support allow them to be approached calmly. It is essential to fully understand each step to ensure the smooth progress of your solar project.
Financial Considerations and Profitability of a Solar Farm
Absence of Government Grants for Ground-Mounted Installations
It is important to note that, unlike some rooftop installations, ground-mounted solar power plant projects generally do not benefit from direct government grants. This means that financial viability relies entirely on electricity production and associated sales contracts. The absence of subsidies necessitates a rigorous financial analysis from the outset.
Comparison of Installation Costs Versus Rooftop Systems
The installation of a ground-mounted photovoltaic farm represents a significant initial investment. Costs can vary considerably depending on the project size, the type of panels chosen, and the necessary ground preparation work. It is estimated that a 1 MWp power plant, capable of supplying several hundred homes, may require an investment of around one million euros. This includes not only the panels and inverters but also the mounting structures, technical studies, administrative procedures, and connection to the electricity grid. Rooftop systems, although sometimes complex, often avoid the costs of ground preparation and specific foundations, which can make them more affordable on a smaller scale.
Potential Rental Income for Land Provision
For landowners, leasing their land to a solar developer constitutes a stable and predictable source of long-term income, often for over 20 years. Rental income can be attractive, particularly for land deemed less productive for agriculture or presenting specific characteristics. Degraded or artificialised land can thus generate significant annual rents, for example up to €10,000 per hectare. This approach allows for land value enhancement without requiring initial investment from the owner, who delegates project management and financing to the developer. It is essential to thoroughly study your land’s potential for a personalised estimate.
The annual income from a 1 MWp farm averages between €60,000 and €100,000. This amount heavily depends on the electricity purchase tariff, which is often guaranteed by long-term contracts, and the actual production rate of the installation. Selling all the electricity produced by your installation requires a QualiPV certified professional for the installation, and the income will depend on the installed capacity and regional sunshine. It is therefore crucial to carry out a precise feasibility study to assess the potential income of your solar project.
Choosing the Right Partner for Your Solar Project
Setting up a solar panel farm is a process that requires specialised expertise and professional support. It’s not simply about leasing land; it’s about ensuring the technical, administrative, and financial viability of the project in the long term. The choice of partner is therefore a decisive step for the success of your installation.
Selection Criteria for Solar Developers and Installers
To select the right developer or installer, several points need to be considered. First, you must check their experience in managing large-scale ground-mounted photovoltaic projects. A track record of successful achievements, particularly in contexts similar to yours, is a strong indicator of their competence. Ask for references and inquire about the quality of their previous work. The financial stability of the partner is also a significant aspect, as these projects span several decades. A stable partner guarantees reliable monitoring and maintenance throughout the installation’s lifespan.
It is also important to ensure that the partner masters the entire value chain, from feasibility study to maintenance, including complex administrative procedures and grid connection. A company offering comprehensive support will greatly simplify your task.
Professional Support for Land Value Enhancement
A good partner must be able to guide you in enhancing the value of your land. This involves a precise assessment of your land’s potential, taking into account sunshine, topography, and proximity to connection points. The objective is to maximise the installation’s efficiency while respecting local constraints.
The ideal partner will help you build a solid file for administrative procedures and potential calls for tenders. They can also advise you on the best technical solutions and fixing systems adapted to your plot. For example, for a 1 MWp installation, approximately 2 to 3 hectares of land are required. Professional support ensures that all technical specificities are taken into account.
Comparing Offers to Maximise Benefits
Don’t settle for the first offer you receive. It is advisable to approach several solar developers to compare their proposals. Elements to compare include the proposed rent for the land, electricity purchase conditions, guarantees offered, and the clauses of the partnership agreement. Competitive bidding ensures you obtain the best possible conditions.
It is important to fully understand the structure of potential income. Leasing land for a solar farm can generate annual income ranging from €1,500 to €10,000 per hectare, depending on the land quality and the project. A comparative analysis of offers will help you choose the partner who will provide the best return on investment, while ensuring transparent and lasting collaboration. Akuo Energy, for example, positions itself as a trusted partner for sustainable energy solutions.
Here is a simplified comparative table of elements to examine:
| Comparison Criterion | Offer A | Offer B | Offer C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual rent per hectare | €4,000 | €4,500 | €3,800 |
| Contract duration | 20 years | 25 years | 20 years |
| Technical guarantees | 10 years | 15 years | 12 years |
| Administrative support | Full | Partial | Full |
It is also wise to inquire about how the partner manages the connection to the electricity grid, an often complex step. A good developer will take charge of this part, in coordination with stakeholders such as Enedis. Choosing the right partner means ensuring that your ground-mounted solar project proceeds under the best conditions, from design to operation.
Lifespan and Maintenance of Photovoltaic Installations
Once your solar panel farm is installed, it is important to consider its longevity and proper functioning in the long term. Modern photovoltaic panels are designed to last, with an average lifespan generally extending over 25 to 30 years, or even more. After this period, they continue to produce electricity, but their efficiency may slightly decrease. Adequate maintenance is therefore key to optimising this performance and extending the life of your installation.
Estimated Lifespan of Solar Panels and Their Recycling
Most manufacturers guarantee 80% of initial power performance after 25 years of use. At the end of their operational life, solar panels can be recycled. In France, solar panel recycling is managed by an eco-organisation approved by the State, SOREN. This process allows for the recovery of valuable materials contained in the panels and limits environmental impact.
Importance of Monitoring Systems for Site Security
To ensure the security and performance of your solar farm, monitoring systems are essential. They allow for rapid detection of any anomaly or malfunction, whether it’s a technical problem with the panels, inverters, or cabling. Proactive monitoring enables intervention before small problems become major, thus avoiding significant production losses and higher repair costs. These systems can include sensors, cameras, and data analysis software for real-time tracking.
Panel Accessibility to Facilitate Cleaning and Maintenance
The accessibility of solar panels is an important factor to consider during the installation’s design. Clear access paths and well-designed mounting structures facilitate cleaning and maintenance operations. Regular cleaning, often once or twice a year depending on the environment, helps remove dust, leaves, or bird droppings that could reduce panel efficiency. Preventive maintenance, including checking connections and the general condition of components, is also essential to guarantee the reliability of the installation throughout its lifespan. It is recommended to use professionals for these operations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of interventions. Leasing land to a photovoltaic developer can include these maintenance services in the contract, offering peace of mind to the landowner.
The Impact of Weather Conditions on Solar Production
Weather conditions play a decisive role in the performance of a photovoltaic farm. Sunshine is the most obvious factor, but other climatic elements can also influence efficiency.
Influence of Sunshine on Panel Efficiency
The intensity and duration of solar exposure directly affect the amount of electricity produced. Sunny days, particularly in the south of France, allow for maximum production. Conversely, cloudy or rainy periods reduce production, as the panels only receive diffuse light. Even in overcast weather, panels can generate a portion of their capacity, often between 10% and 25% of their maximum potential, depending on the technology [cda4]. It is therefore essential to accurately assess the average sunshine level of the region where the solar farm will be located to estimate its profitability [fb46].
Profitability of Land in Less Sunny Regions
Although the south of France offers superior sunshine, less favoured regions are not excluded from photovoltaic projects. Technological advancements in solar panel manufacturing, particularly monocrystalline panels, improve efficiency even with lower sunshine. The orientation and tilt of the panels are also optimised to capture the maximum available light. Thus, one hectare of solar panels in northern France can produce between 1,000 and 1,200 MWh per year, while in the south, this production can reach 1,300 to 1,500 MWh per year. Overall profitability will therefore depend on a detailed analysis of these parameters and installation costs.
Management of Potential Shading on the Installation
Shading, whether from trees, buildings, or other structures, can significantly reduce the production of a photovoltaic farm. Even partial shading on some panels can have a disproportionate impact on the overall system performance, especially if the panels are not equipped with efficient shading management systems such as optimisers or micro-inverters. It is therefore crucial, when selecting the land, to carry out a precise shading study to identify and, if possible, eliminate potential sources of shade. Good planning of panel placement, taking into account surrounding elements and their seasonal evolution, is necessary to maximise energy production over the installation’s lifespan [1f58].
The impact of weather conditions is not limited to sunshine. Temperature can also play a role: excessive heat can slightly decrease panel efficiency, while cold can improve it. Snow, if not too abundant, can even reflect light onto the panels, thereby increasing production. The management of these variations is integrated into the feasibility studies of solar projects.
Specifics of Ground-Mounted Solar Projects in France
France, with its energy policy focused on the development of renewable energies, presents a particular framework for ground-mounted photovoltaic projects. The Multi-annual Energy Programme (PPE) plays a key role in guiding these installations, aiming to accelerate the country’s energy transition. Recent laws, such as those on renewable energies, encourage the integration of solar into various spaces, including underutilised urban areas or land that has seen industrial activity.
The installation of ground-mounted solar power plants in France is subject to strict regulations. For installations with a capacity of less than 3 kWp, a simple declaration to the local council is sufficient. However, once the capacity exceeds this threshold, a building permit becomes mandatory. Furthermore, depending on the size and location of the project, an environmental impact assessment may be required, especially if the site is classified or protected. It is also essential to check the project’s compatibility with the local urban plan (PLU) of the commune. If the PLU does not provide for this type of installation, a modification may be necessary. For larger projects or those located in specific areas, an ICPE (Installation Classified for Environmental Protection) file might be required.
Role of Architects of French Buildings in Protected Areas
When your ground-mounted solar installation project is located in an area where architectural heritage is protected, the opinion of the Architectes des Bâtiments de France (ABF) becomes essential. The ABF ensures that the integration of new installations, including solar panels, respects the aesthetics and harmony of the surrounding landscape. This may involve adjustments in the choice of materials, the arrangement of panels, or even their landscape integration. It is therefore important to anticipate this consultation to avoid delays in your project.
Impact of Local Urban Plans on Projects
The Local Urban Plan (PLU) is a determining document for the feasibility of your ground-mounted solar project. Each commune has its own PLU, which defines the urban planning rules applicable in its territory. It is imperative to consult the PLU of the commune where you plan to install your power plant to check if ground-mounted photovoltaic projects are authorised there and under what conditions. Some PLUs may impose specific restrictions concerning the size of installations, their location, or their visual impact. If the current PLU is not favourable, a modification or revision procedure can be initiated, but this represents a long and complex process. A good understanding of these urban planning rules is a key step to secure your project.
Here is an overview of common administrative procedures:
- Verification of land conformity with the PLU.
- Obtaining a building permit for installations over 3 kWp.
- Possible consultation with the Architectes des Bâtiments de France for protected sites.
- Submission of an ICPE file if necessary.
Leasing your land to a solar developer is an interesting alternative for owners who wish to enhance their land value without bearing the costs and risks associated with direct investment. This approach allows for stable long-term income, while contributing to the energy transition.
France has some specific rules for ground-mounted solar projects. These installations, which use sunlight to create electricity, have their own challenges and advantages in our country. If you want to know more about how it works and what it involves, visit our website for all the information! You might be surprised how easy it is to get started.
Conclusion: Towards Controlled Ground-Mounted Solar Energy Production
Installing a ground-mounted solar panel farm represents an interesting approach to enhancing land value and contributing to the energy transition. Although constraints exist, particularly the absence of certain government grants for ground-mounted installations, the potential benefits in terms of income and environmental impact are notable. It is important to thoroughly study every aspect, from the necessary area to panel orientation, including administrative procedures. Collaborating with professionals can greatly simplify the process and optimise your project’s efficiency. Considering this solution is a concrete step towards a more sustainable and potentially profitable energy future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a solar photovoltaic farm?
A solar farm is a large installation with panels that produce electricity from the sun. They are placed on a large plot of land. The electricity generated can be used directly or fed into the national electricity grid.
How much land is needed to install a solar farm?
To achieve good electricity production, you need approximately 2 to 3 hectares of land for every megawatt of electricity you wish to produce. The exact size depends on the desired capacity.
What types of land are suitable for a solar farm?
Various types of land can be used: agricultural land, meadows, industrial brownfield sites, disused land, or even slightly degraded land. The important thing is that they are large enough and well exposed to the sun.
Is it possible to combine agriculture and solar panels on the same land?
Yes, this is known as agrivoltaics. It allows the land to be used for both electricity production and for cultivating crops or raising animals simultaneously. The space just needs to be well organised so that both activities function effectively together.
What are the advantages of installing ground-mounted solar panels?
The main advantage is that you can choose exactly where and how to position the panels to capture maximum sunlight. Additionally, they are easier to clean and maintain because they are at ground level.
Are there government grants for installing ground-mounted solar farms?
Generally, there are no specific government grants for large ground-mounted solar farm installations. Grants usually apply to smaller rooftop installations for those producing their own electricity.
What is the lifespan of solar panels and how are they recycled?
Solar panels can produce electricity for 25 to 30 years. When they are no longer in use, they are recycled by specialist companies that ensure materials are recovered for new products.
How are solar panels fixed to the ground and what about wind?
Panels are often mounted on metal structures that are either driven into the ground or ballasted with weights. This is important because wind can exert strong pressure on the panels, especially from behind, and they need to remain stable.
