PV modules installed on racking system laying on dirt. Thoughts?

[tcleghorn]

I've seen a type of new racking system where PV modules are installed flat, face-up, in contact with the Earth in order to reduce the cost of the racking system versus a traditional fixed-tilt system and increase the ground coverage ratio (GCR). The modules are held down to the dirt with aircraft cable and concrete blocks. The modules may become submerged and the connectors are regularly submerged. The modules are supposed to be cleaned by some automatic means such as a robot.

Any issues you can think of with this arrangement?

 

[pv_n00b]

The Erthos system. I'm not a fan, modules and connectors were not designed to be on the ground where they are easily submerged. Ground dwelling critters can get under there and nest or chew cables. Even when it's dry out there can be high humidity between the modules and the soil that cause long term problems as the heat from the modules causes soil moisture to evaporate. Also the only way to service modules in the center is to remove modules to create a path or as the company recommends, use those large clown shoes. I don't care what kind of shoes you wear, walking on modules is a bad idea.
On the upside it is less expensive to install this way. Since the system is new there's no O&M data I know of to indicate how expensive it is to maintain. The market penetration has been minimal so far.