Ground-mounted solar power – or Solar parks - is the most efficient method for generating large amounts of emission-free electricity. Unlike rooftop PV, solar farms optimally utilize suitable open spaces and achieve low levelized costs of electricity. They are particularly suitable for companies, municipalities, and investors with large areas.
This post provides an in-depth overview: what solar parks achieve, on which areas they are eligible for approval, why they are economically convincing, and how CUBE CONCEPTS implements them as a product.
What is utility-scale solar?
Ground-mounted PV systems use solar modules on ground-based racks or foundations. The modules convert sunlight into direct current (DC), and inverters convert it into grid power. This power then flows directly into the company's grid or the public grid.
Difference from rooftop solar panels:
- Larger scale1 bis >100 MWp possible.
- Optimal alignment: South-facing, Tilt angle 25–35° – East–West orientation also makes sense.
- High yield: Less shade, better ventilation.
Solar parks are scalable and reach Generation costs of 3–5 cents per kWh.
Which areas are suitable for solar farms?
Not every meadow will become a solar farm. Areas eligible for approval are:
- Conversion areasFormer industrial/commercial areas.
- Embossed surfaces: Landfills, gravel pits, quarries, military sites.
- Infrastructure areasHighway/railway verges, sports fields.
- FarmlandOnly with Agri-PV (dual use with agriculture).
ForbiddenHigh-quality arable/grassland, nature reserves. Federal states designate suitable areas. Since 2017, simplified building law for up to 100 hectares.
Advantages of solar parks
Solar parks convince with:
- High yieldOptimal alignment, 1,200–1,400 kWh/kWp/year.
- ScalabilityFrom 1 MWp to megaprojects.
- Economic efficiencyThe larger, the cheaper per kWp (€0.6–0.9/Wp).
- Longevity30+ years, low operating costs.
- FlexibilityCompatible with Co-location Battery storage, Agri-PV, grid integration.
Comparison: Rooftop vs. Ground-Mounted Solar:
| Criterion | Rooftop PV | Solar park |
| Yield/kWp | Middle | High |
| Scalability | Bounded by roof area | Virtually unlimited |
| Investment costs | Higher | Low |
| Approval | Simple | Complex (Building Permit) |
Planning and Installation of a Solar Park
Key steps:
- Mains connectionMedium/High Voltage
- Location AnalysisSunlight, shade, grid connection, soil conditions.
- Feasibility study: Economic efficiency, space requirements (approx. 1–1.5 ha/MWp).
- PermissionsBuilding law, environmental protection, species protection, Natura 2000 assessment.
- Technology: Modules (400–600 Wp), trackers (optional; +20% yield but more prone to failure), inverters.
Cost overview (for MWp, 2026)
| Costs | |
| Module + Inverter | 500,000 – 700,000 Euros |
| Mounting: Support structure including ramming or foundations | 200,000 – 300,000 Euro |
| Planning / Approval | 50,000 - 100,000 Euro |
| Total | 0.8 – 1.1 million Euro |
Biodiversity and Environment: Facts Over Myths
Solar parks on suitable land often promote biodiversity:
- HabitatsFlower strips, insect hotels, sheep grazing.
- StudiesBNE study shows higher species diversity than on intensive farmland.
- CO₂ balance sheet40–50 g CO₂/kWh versus 500 g for gas.
Criticisms (e.g., from NABU) refer to incorrect site selection – well-planned parks are ecologically positive.
Operation & Maintenance of Solar Parks
Annual Costs: 1–2% of the investment.
- Cleaning: Module cleaning 1-2 times/year.
- InspectionWiring, inverter, foundations.
- Monitoring: Real-time monitoring (e.g., CUBE Vision), drone inspection.
- Service life30–40 years old, Degradation <0.51 TP6T per year.
Profitability: When are solar farms worthwhile?
Return on Investment: 8–12 years with EEG remuneration + self-consumption.
Revenue streams:
- EEG surcharge (green electricity).
- Direct marketing.
- Self-consumption (for colocation).
- BESS IntegrationPeak Shaving).
Rule of thumbEspecially profitable from 5 MWp.
Conclusion: Solar farms as an investment in the future
Open-space photovoltaics are the most efficient way to generate large-scale electricity for suitable areas. They offer high yields, low costs, and ecological advantages - with professional planning. Solar parks are not a fad, but rather economic infrastructure for the energy transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
On which areas can solar farms be built?
Conversion areas, landfills, buffer strips, commercial areas. No high-quality arable land.
Do you need a building permit?
Yes, except for small systems (<750 kWp on pre-developed areas). Full inspection including species protection.
Do solar farms promote biodiversity?
Yes, on suitable areas: flower meadows, sheep, insect habitats. ESD study confirms higher diversity than monocultures.
What is the cost per kWp?
€0.6–0.9/Wp for large-scale systems, incl. installation/grid connection.
Is a solar farm worthwhile for businesses?
Yes, from 1-2 MWp: EEG + Self-consumption + BESS = ROI 8–12 years.
Solar Parks by CUBE CONCEPTS
From feasibility study to operation:
- AnalysisArea analysis, yield forecast, economic viability.
- PlanningPermits, grid connection, species protection.
- RealizationTurnkey, incl. tracker/BESS option.
- Operation: CUBE Vision Monitoring, Remote Maintenance.
- Financing: Purchase, Contracting, EEG optimization.