Industrial Solar Mounting Systems: Materials, Installation Methods & Key Considerations

Solar panels alone cannot generate power efficiently. A crucial but often overlooked component is the solar mounting system—the support structure that holds the panels securely in place. Choosing the right type of mounting system for industrial applications directly affects power output, installation cost, durability, and long-term ROI.

What Is a Solar Mounting System?

A solar mounting system is the base structure used to install solar panels. While residential systems involve smaller installations, industrial solar power systems require high-strength, scalable mounting structures to support large arrays over extended periods. The right choice maximizes energy generation, withstands harsh environmental conditions, and ensures structural safety for over 20 years.

Common Installation Methods for Industrial Solar Systems

Ground-Mounted Systems

Also called “open-field mounting,” these systems are installed directly into the ground and are ideal for unused land or slopes.

• Key benefit: Customizable tilt angles to optimize solar gain.
• Popular choice: Ground Solar Mounting System

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Metal Roof Mounting Systems

Used in factories or warehouses with corrugated or trapezoidal metal roofs.

• Flat mounting: Lower cost
• Tilted mounting: Better solar efficiency

Explore our Metal Roof Mounting Systems

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Floating Solar Mounting Systems

Deployed on water bodies like ponds or reservoirs using floating platforms.

• Higher output due to water cooling effect (~10% more)
• Efficient land use
• Suppresses algae growth

Explore: Floating Solar Mounting System

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Types of Mounting Materials

The mounting structure must resist corrosion, bear environmental loads, and support maintenance activities. Here are the top 3 materials:

Stainless Steel

• Pros: Excellent corrosion resistance; ideal for coastal areas
• Cons: Heavy and expensive; hard to process on-site

Galvanized Steel (Carbon Steel with Zn Coating)

• Pros: Affordable and strong
• Cons: Requires anti-corrosion coating (e.g., ZAM or HDG); not suited for all environments

Check: Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Base Support

Aluminum Alloy

• Pros: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, recyclable
• Cons: Lower strength (can be compensated by design)

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Foundation Types for Industrial Mounting

The foundation anchors the structure and determines long-term stability.

Concrete Foundations

• Types: Precast blocks, strip foundations, raft foundations
• Applications: High-wind or unstable soil regions

More info: Concrete Block Foundation System

Pile Foundations

• Variants: Screw piles, driven C-steel, single poles
• Pros: Minimal ground disturbance; fast install
• Cons: Unsuitable for loose or weak soils

Check:
C – Steel with Screw Pile
Single Pole Mounting

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Ideal Height of Solar Mounting Systems

• Standard range: 60–100 cm (minimum 50 cm)
• Too low (<30 cm): May void warranties or insurance
• Too high: Increases wind exposure and cost

Benefits of Elevated Mounting Systems

• Avoids shading from weeds or nearby objects
• Reduces dust and mud splashes
• Easier inspection and cleaning
• Keeps panel temperature lower, reducing thermal loss
• Allows snow to slide off easily in colder regions

Important Considerations When Raising Mount Height

Higher Costs

• Requires more materials, stronger components
• May need bracing and wind-resistant design

Wind Load Risks

• Taller structures are more exposed to uplift forces
• Site-specific wind analysis is crucial

Cost Breakdown of Industrial Solar Installation (2022 Example)

(Source: METI, 2022)

Optimizing Panel Tilt Angle

General Rule

• Average tilt: 30°
• South-facing is optimal in Japan

Regional Differences

• Hokkaido: Higher tilt for snow clearance
• Okinawa: Lower tilt to capture midday sunlight

Use NEDO’s database for precise angle simulation.

Adjusted Layouts for Limited Land

In commercial installations, east-west zigzag setups (M-shape) may be used to increase panel density—even at the cost of 10–15% efficiency. Reflected light between panels helps recover part of the loss.

Summary: Maximize Output with the Right Mounting Choices

Industrial solar projects must:

• Choose materials suited to local climate
• Use strong, low-maintenance foundations
• Set panels at optimal tilt angles and elevations

Being informed helps avoid poor installations and maximize returns. Consult professionals and choose trusted suppliers like Firstsolar.

Need Help Choosing a Mounting System?

At Firstsolar, we provide a wide range of high-quality, cost-effective solar racking solutions tailored for industrial needs. Whether you’re looking for aluminum, carbon steel, or floating systems, we’ve got you covered.

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Let us help you build durable and efficient solar power infrastructure.