2023 Global News Roundup: Ballasted Solar Mounting Systems
2023-05-19
Spanish startup Landatu Solar launched Landblock, an ultra-lightweight ballasted mounting system at the Genera trade show. Constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and weighing less than 3kg, the system features a two-piece, stackable design. Its hollow base can be filled with water, sand, or gravel to achieve ballast weights up to 100kg, and is engineered to withstand wind speeds of 162 km/h
Sunforson introduced the SFS-FR-04 SunRack ballasted system. A fully modular, rail-less design, it minimized components for rapid installation and optimal roof space utilization, targeting cost-sensitive commercial rooftop projects.
Responding to the trend of larger-format PV modules, Sunforson launched the FR03H ballasted racking. The design solved panel bowing issues by placing dual triangular supports under each large module (e.g., 2200×1100mm), a key upgrade from the single-support FR02 model.
Mibet Energy unveiled a suite of matrix-style ballasted systems for flat roofs.
- RMI: A standard aluminum system with fixed angles (5°/10°), featuring wind deflectors for high stability.
- RMI Pro: An upgraded version offering 0-30° variable tilt angles for maximized solar irradiance.
- Full Wind Deflector Matrix: A pre-assembled, tool-free system popular in Europe, offering superior aerodynamics.
Major Project Deployments
Chiko Solarcompleted a 5.9MW utility-scale PV plant using its Ballast III System. The non-penetrating design was crucial for preserving the site's ground integrity and enabling fast deployment.
PowerField Energy announced its PowerRack ballasted system entered utility-scale deployment. Initially proven in residential and commercial installations (including NREL tests), the portable, ballasted system solved site and environmental challenges for a major project in Brodheadsville.
SolarBank Corporation selected Polar Racking to supply its ballasted foundation systems for 10MW of solar projects on closed landfills. The non-intrusive ballasted foundations were ideal for avoiding ground disturbance and complying with strict landfill regulations.
Clenergysuccessfully grid-connected a 5.75MW distributed PV project. The flat rooftop section utilized Clenergy's SolarRoof Ascent ballasted system, which featured aerodynamic optimization to reduce roof load and wind uplift, requiring no roof penetrations.
Industry Exhibitions & Market Expansion
At Solar & Storage Live 2023, leading Chinese manufacturers Mibet Energy and Winergy argeted the booming UK market, aligning with the UK's goal of reaching 70GW of solar capacity by 2035.
Market Trends & Insights
- Lightweight & Flexible Materials: A shift from traditional concrete to HDPE and composite materials offered easier handling, transport, and reduced roof stress.
- Adaptation to Large Modules: New designs specifically addressed structural support for the increasing size of PV panels.
- No-Penetration Demand: Ballasted systems dominated commercial flat roof installations due to preserved waterproofing and lower installation costs.
- Utility-Scale Expansion: The technology moved beyond rooftops, proving viable for ground-mount projects on landfills, brownfields, and sites unsuitable for piles.
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