Published November 14, 2025 · Updated June 22, 2026 · 6 min read
The short answer
There are three main ways to go solar: standard rooftop panels (lowest cost, most popular), ground-mount systems (for homes with land or roofs that can't host panels), and solar shingles like the Tesla Solar Roof (a roof and solar in one, premium look). The best fit depends on your roof condition, available space, budget, and whether you're also re-roofing.
By Vinnie Curcie, Founder & CEO
Three ways to put solar on your property
Rooftop panels are no longer the only option. Depending on your roof, your land, and your budget, you can also go with a ground-mounted array or solar shingles like the Tesla Solar Roof. Here's how the three main approaches compare so you can pick the right one for your home.
1. Standard rooftop panels — the most cost-effective
Rack-mounted rooftop panels remain the most popular choice: proven technology, the lowest upfront cost, and a custom fit for nearly any roof. Panels mount to your existing roof on secure racking, power your home during the day, and send extra energy to a battery or the grid for credit under California's NEM 3.0 rules. Explore the panels we install on our solar page and products page.
2. Ground-mount systems
If you have open land — or a roof that's shaded, aging, or the wrong shape — a ground-mounted array is a strong option. It can be aimed at the ideal angle for maximum production and is easy to access for cleaning and service. The trade-off is that it needs usable yard space and its own foundation and trenching, which can raise the install cost.
3. Solar shingles & the Tesla Solar Roof
Solar shingles integrate generation into the roof surface itself. The Tesla Solar Roof replaces your roof with durable tiles — some solar, some matching non-solar — for a clean, premium look with no rack-mounted panels. It's the most expensive path per watt, but it shines when you need a new roof anyway: you get a roof and a power plant in one, under a single long warranty.
Which type is right for you?
It comes down to four things: roof condition (a worn roof should be replaced first — see roof before solar), available space, budget, and whether you're re-roofing. Most homes land on standard panels; ground mounts suit properties with land or difficult roofs; and the Solar Roof fits homeowners re-roofing who want the integrated look. We'll walk you through the best fit on a free estimate.
FAQ
Standard rack-mounted rooftop panels are typically the lowest-cost option and the most popular. Ground-mount systems cost more because of the foundation and trenching, and solar shingles like the Tesla Solar Roof are the most expensive per watt — though the Solar Roof can pencil out when you need a new roof anyway.
Incentives and rates change. This page is kept current — but always confirm specifics for your home.
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