One of the main elements of a photovoltaic installation is the structure for the photovoltaic modules so we shall now describe what each solution involves. After reading this article, you will know everything you need to know about how solar panels should be fixed and which option is best suited to your needs.

There are different types of solar panel mounts that can be used to fix the photovoltaic panels in place. The best will depend on the type, orientation and area where the installation is going to be. Among the options available, there are roof structures, ground structures and car park structures. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right model. But first, let’s start at the beginning.

¿Qué tipos de estructuras para módulos fotovoltaicos existen?

A solar panel mount is a device that helps support the photovoltaic module. It can be a frame on which the solar panels are mounted, or it can be a mount that helps keep the solar panels at a certain inclination. These types of mounts also serve to fix the solar panels in the correct position, as well as ensuring their stability over time, regardless of weather conditions

What types of structures are there for photovoltaic modules?

There are three types of solar panel structures: roof-mounted, ground-mounted and car park structures:

  • Roof mounts are the most common in self-consumption projects and are therefore the most popular. They are suitable for almost all types of roofs and are most commonly used in residential and industrial applications.
  • Car park mounts are the most versatile and offer the best stability, but require a solid base to anchor to. They are often used to make use of the space underneath as parking spaces or shaded areas.
  • Ground mounts with ground fixing systems are the most versatile. They are commonly used for large installations and also for farm installations.

As we can see, a fundamental part of a new installation is to know exactly what installation possibilities are available so as to choose the best possible option.

What ground mounting systems are there?

Just as important as the characteristics of the structures in photovoltaic plants is to carry out an appropriate geotechnical study that guarantees the stability of the system. Here, our engineering department plays a key role in providing efficient solutions for this type of process.

One of the systems we have is the direct driving system, which requires no special configuration and is the most versatile solution as long as the soil allows it.

Another of our ground anchoring systems is the concrete footing anchoring system, which is an excellent solution for surfaces where it is not possible to drive into the ground.

Also, if you need an environmental solution whose base can be filled with different materials, the gabion foundation system will be ideal for your project.

What materials are the mounts usually made of?

The most commonly used materials are zinc-coated steel, galvanised steel or aluminium. Both coated and galvanised steel are highly resistant and are mainly used for ground structures, but it should be noted that modifications cannot be made to galvanised steel in the future, as it can lose its stability and resistance. The use of aluminium as a mount material also has many advantages as it is a light and malleable material that can be adapted to almost any surface. In this case, it is mostly used for roof structures.

Can photovoltaic structures be customised?

Yes. Solasol has a customisation service where you can choose the colour and design of your structures for photovoltaic installations so that they adapt to the space and have the lowest possible visual impact.

Thermo-lacquering, which is a powder coating process – explained in a simple and basic way – offers a wide range of advantages by providing the structure with greater resistance to corrosion, abrasions and deterioration due to exposure to adverse weather conditions. In addition, it can provide a vivid colour of any shade and an attractive decorative finish, perfect if you want your facilities to have a more attractive or, for example, more corporate aesthetic, corresponding to the colours of your company.