How to Select PV Mounting Systems？

Although PV mounting systems account for only a few percent of the total cost of a photovoltaic power generation system, their selection is crucial. One of the key considerations is weather resistance. PV mounting systems must maintain structural stability and reliability over a 25-year lifespan, withstanding environmental corrosion as well as wind and snow loads. Installation safety and reliability are also essential—achieving operational effectiveness with minimal installation costs. Additionally, important factors include whether the system can be maintenance-free in the later stage, the availability of reliable maintenance guarantees, and the recyclability of the mounting system at the end of its lifespan.

When designing and constructing a photovoltaic power station, the choice between fixed-tilt mounts, adjustable-tilt mounts, or automatic tracking mounts requires a comprehensive, location-specific assessment. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, and all are still being explored and improved. The characteristics of different PV mounting system types are as follows:

1. Fixed-tilt mountsFixed-tilt mounts are the most commonly used structure in most scenarios. They feature simple installation, low cost, and high safety, capable of withstanding high wind speeds and seismic conditions. These mounts require almost no maintenance throughout their lifespan, resulting in low operation and maintenance costs. Their drawback is relatively low power output when used in high-latitude regions.

2. Adjustable-tilt mountsCompared to fixed-tilt mounts, adjustable-tilt mounts divide the entire year into several periods. This allows the solar array to operate at the average optimal tilt angle during each period, capturing more annual solar radiation than fixed-tilt mounts—increasing power generation by approximately 5%. They also offer significant advantages over automatic tracking mounts, which suffer from immature technology, high investment costs, high failure rates, and high operation and maintenance expenses. Adjustable-tilt mounts are a practically applicable and economically valuable solution.

3. Single-axis tracking mountsSingle-axis tracking mounts deliver superior energy production performance. Compared to fixed-tilt mounts, horizontal single-axis mounts can increase power generation by 20%~25% in low-latitude regions and 12%~15% in other areas. Inclined single-axis mounts, when used in different regions, can boost power generation by 20%~30%.