Are You Choosing Aluminum Mounting Systems Just For Their Low Price?

When building a solar power plant, especially under FIT programs or tight budgets, reducing construction costs is often a key priority. However, blindly choosing a cheaper aluminum mounting system can lead to serious structural risks and long-term losses.

Why Cheap Mounting Systems Can Be Dangerous

Aluminum mounting structures may look the same on the surface, but the internal quality often differs drastically. To reduce costs, manufacturers may:

Apply thinner anodizing or galvanizing layers
Widen the spacing between ground screws
Use thinner rails
Change the frame type from W-type to weaker N-type or A-type

These adjustments might not be noticeable upon delivery, but they weaken structural integrity and increase vulnerability to wind and corrosion.

🔗 Explore Aluminum Ground Mount – Screw Pile Foundation

Mounting Systems Are Custom-Engineered—Don’t Force the Price

Each solar project has unique conditions: terrain size, panel size, and wind speeds vary. Because of this, mounting systems are often customized. Pressuring suppliers too much on price may force them to secretly downgrade materials or design specifications. Unlike standardized panels or inverters, mounting structures have room for hidden shortcuts.

Why Significant Price Gaps Should Raise Red Flags

In places like Xiamen, China—home to many solar frame manufacturers—labor and material costs are largely the same. Aluminum is a global commodity with little variation in base price.

So if a company offers aluminum mounting frames 10–20% cheaper than competitors, that’s a warning sign. No company sells at a loss “out of goodwill.” The savings are likely coming from invisible compromises.

Mounting Systems Are the Foundation of Your Power Plant

Would you build your house on a cheap foundation just to save a few dollars? Probably not. Unlike walls or appliances, solar mounting systems:

Can’t be easily replaced or repaired
Require removal of panels and cables for maintenance
Could result in system-wide collapse during typhoons or heavy storms

For example, our C-Steel Mount with Screw Pile Foundation is designed for extreme stability and longevity.

🔗 View C-Steel Ground Mount – Screw Pile Foundation

Better Choices, Smarter Investment

Don’t fall for the illusion of a bargain. A cheaper mounting system could jeopardize your entire investment in the long run. Prioritize strength, certification, and proven durability. At Firstsolar, we offer mounting systems tailored for long-term use with robust design and verified anti-corrosion treatments.