Industry Drivers: Rapid Global PV Growth Fuels Mounting Market

In 2024, the global PV industry continues its strong growth. According to the latest data from China’s National Energy Administration, new PV installations in China reached 277.57 GW in 2024. Against the backdrop of global energy transformation, China’s PV industry is expanding at an impressive pace. As the critical link between modules and building structures, the quality and technology of PV mounting systems directly affect the operational life and efficiency of a power plant, gradually shifting from a “supporting role” to a “main player”.

Globally, according to a survey by QY Research, the solar mounting systems market was valued at approximately RMB 116.62 billion in 2024 and is expected to approach RMB 196.17 billion by 2031, with a CAGR of 7.4% over the next six years. Behind these figures lies continued policy support worldwide – China’s “dual carbon” goals, the EU’s Green Deal, and the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are all driving rising demand for solar installations. Residential distributed PV, as an important segment, is seeing rapid growth in mounting system demand.

Technological Innovation: From Fixed to Smart Mounting

2024 has witnessed profound changes in PV mounting technology. For a long time, fixed mounting dominated the market due to its simple structure and controllable cost, but in recent years tracking systems have entered the public eye at an unprecedented pace. As reported by China Energy News, industry experts agree that PV mounting is evolving from fixed to tracking. Eastmoney Securities forecasts global tracking system shipments of 95 GW, 115 GW, and 135 GW from 2024 to 2026.

Tracking systems follow the sun’s path to adjust module orientation, boosting power generation by 15–20% compared to fixed mounts, with even higher gains when combined with smart tracking algorithms. For residential users, although tracking systems are more expensive than fixed ones, they are an attractive new option for households seeking maximum energy yield, especially in areas with large seasonal or daily variations in solar angles.

Meanwhile, flexible PV mounting systems also show great potential. At the 2024 SNEC exhibition, Huiyao PinShang Energy demonstrated a flexible system featuring high clearance and long spans, increasing PV plant capacity by 30–50% in various scenarios and freeing up space beneath the panels. It is already replacing traditional fixed mounts in agricultural and fishery complementary PV projects. Although flexible systems are currently more common in large projects, this technology points to more diverse solutions for the residential sector in the future.

Addressing Key Pain Points: Corrosion Resistance and Extreme Weather Protection

When selecting a residential PV mounting system, aluminum alloy and hot‑dip galvanized steel are the two most common options. According to a 2024 buyer’s guide from Autohome.com, aluminum alloy mounts are preferred for their corrosion resistance and maintenance‑free nature. Steel mounts have higher strength, but the galvanized layer can rust after long exposure to outdoor conditions. Over the entire lifecycle, aluminum alloy is often recommended for residential roofs due to its light weight, durability, and zero maintenance.

In areas with frequent strong winds or heavy snow, wind and snow load capacity is a critical specification. Buyers should pay attention not only to material thickness and ballast design but also to overall structural strength and waterproofing solutions. S‑5!’s railless metal roof PV mounting system is a benchmark product in 2024. It reduces material usage by approximately 85% compared to traditional rail systems and has passed FM Approvals’ most stringent PV standard, FM4478, demonstrating excellent wind resistance under high‑speed wind conditions.

For flat roofs, ballasted mounting – which requires no drilling and does not compromise the waterproof membrane – is an important option. Concrete block ballast adds some cost, but professional design ensures wind resistance while protecting the roof structure. However, caution is needed: some unqualified installers cut costs by using expansion bolts directly without proper waterproofing. This practice not only increases the risk of leaks and structural loosening but also creates major safety hazards.

Installation Efficiency Revolution: Saving Time and Labor Becomes a Trend

In 2024, residential PV mounting systems are not only judged on mechanical performance – “ease of installation” has been elevated to an unprecedented level. Faced with a shortage of skilled installers and rising labor costs, manufacturers are innovating in design.

For example, Clenergy’s SolarRoof Pro 2.0 roof mounting system reduces construction time and lowers installation costs by optimizing component connections. It has passed strict quality and environmental adaptability tests, maintaining stable performance even in variable climates, making it especially suitable for rainy regions like the UK. In addition, the company’s flat‑roof solution Ascent 1.1 features a snap‑on design integrating grounding and mid/end clamps, and has obtained a wind tunnel test report from Germany’s I.F.I., as well as TÜV and EU CE certification.

Antaisolar’s SnapFit mounting system, designed for commercial and residential roofs, increases installation efficiency by up to 50% and offers various flexible module compatibility for different roof types. This innovative solution has earned high recognition from installers worldwide. At All Energy Australia 2024, Antaisolar received the “Top Brand PV Australia 2024” award from EUPD Research, highlighting its brand competitiveness in international markets.

Similarly, another well‑known international brand, Renusol, was awarded EUPD Research’s “Top Brand PV” for Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK in 2024, and launched the new FS Pro flat‑roof mounting system.

Recognitions and Market Choices: Top Residential Mounting Brands in 2024

Amid rapid market growth, authoritative recognitions have become an important reference for consumers and installers when choosing brands. In 2024, EUPD Research, a globally recognized PV market research institute, released its list of top European mounting brands based on extensive installer surveys and evaluations.

In the Chinese market, according to comprehensive brand strength, sales volume, and market assessment, the top ten PV mounting brands for 2024 have also been announced. Companies such as Arctech, Trina Solar, Clenergy, and Antaisolar lead the pack thanks to their advanced technology and global footprint. For Chinese residential users, these brands have established complete local service networks and can provide customized solutions for different regions and roof types.

It is worth noting that residential distributed PV is becoming a key focus for many brands. VG Solar, which entered the PV industry in 2013 targeting the residential segment, has risen to become a leading supplier of residential PV mounts in China with its all‑aluminum products, achieving a 101% year‑on‑year increase in orders in 2023 – a clear sign of strong momentum in the residential market.

Residential Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Mounting System from Scratch

1. Identify your roof type. Roof type is the primary factor in selecting a mounting solution. For flat roofs, tilt‑adjustable or ballasted systems are mainstream options, with drainage and waterproofing as key concerns. For pitched roofs, flush‑mount systems that follow the roof surface are recommended to reduce wind load and maintain aesthetics. Some new‑generation mounting feet can now be installed anywhere on the roof without locating rafters, further lowering installation difficulty.

2. Confirm material and durability. For residential users, aluminum alloy offers the best balance of cost‑effectiveness and durability. If steel is chosen, ensure the hot‑dip galvanized coating meets thickness standards and is uniform and robust. In extreme climate regions, prioritise certifications for wind and snow load resistance.

3. Ensure proper installation and after‑sales service. Choose a certified brand and installer with strong local service capabilities. Reputable integrators will strictly follow thickness specifications, ballast designs, and UV‑resistant cable requirements, ensuring safe operation over the system’s 25‑year lifespan.

4. Pay attention to installation efficiency and ease of use. For new homes or roofs scheduled for renovation, consider modular pre‑assembled designs that allow quick, plug‑and‑play installation – shortening construction time and reducing uncertainty.