In 2023, the global renewable energy industry continued its rapid growth. As the “skeleton” of photovoltaic power stations, the steel ground solar mount sector experienced a pivotal year of technological iteration and market expansion. Facing the trend of shifting from traditional concrete foundations to steel structures, as well as complex geographical and climatic conditions in different regions, domestic and international manufacturers intensified efforts in material optimization, structural design, and global footprint expansion. This article summarizes the key developments of representative companies in 2023 in product innovation, market expansion, and international exhibitions.

I. Domestic Industry Leaders: Focusing on H-Beam Steel Piles and Integrated Solutions

In 2023, represented by Jixin Steel, major domestic steel enterprises achieved significant breakthroughs in the solar mount sector, particularly in H-beam steel pile products designed to replace traditional concrete foundations, rapidly expanding their market share.

1. Jixin Steel: The “Breakout” of H-Beam Steel Piles and Intelligent Upgrades
At the beginning of 2023, Jixin Steel’s solar mount products gained significant market traction due to their unique advantages. Addressing the pain points of traditional concrete foundations—such as high pollution during construction, high water consumption, and non-reusability—Jixin Steel launched an integrated H-beam steel pile mount that combines the underground steel pile with the above-ground support structure. This product offers low cost, high strength, a small footprint, and the ability to be reused, quickly gaining market favor.

Another technological highlight was equipping the mounts with “eyes” to enable tracking functionality. This intelligent solar tracker allows the mount to follow the sun’s movement, significantly improving power generation efficiency. As of March 2023, Jixin Steel’s solar mounts accounted for 35% of the domestic market share and were used in nearly 100 ultra-high voltage projects across Japan, the United States, and the European Union. The company expects its domestic market share to reach 60% within the next three years.

2. Grace Solar: Customized Designs for the Southeast Asian Market
In the Southeast Asian market, Grace Solar launched its Energy Smart Ground Fixed Mount System (carbon steel series) at the Philippine International Solar Exhibition in May 2023, targeting the local conditions of high wind speeds and undulating terrain in the Philippines. Featuring a slotted hole design, this product offers excellent support, high stability, and adaptability to uneven terrain, effectively reducing power station costs and making it an ideal choice for large-scale solar projects in the Philippines.

II. International Giants: High-Performance Steel and Lightweight Technology

In 2023, international manufacturers focused on enhancing product load-bearing capacity and cost-effectiveness through materials science and structural mechanics.

1. Schletter Group: High-Performance Steel and Power-to-Weight Ratio Optimization
In August 2023, the globally leading solar mount manufacturer Schletter Group announced it would unveil its latest products at the RE+ exhibition in the U.S. in September. The company emphasized that by using high-performance steel and new geometric structural designs, it significantly improved the ratio between material input and installed PV capacity, placing its systems’ power-to-weight ratio at a globally competitive level.

Notably, its 1P tracking system, specifically optimized for large-format modules, weighs less than 30 kg per kilowatt—approximately 30% lighter than comparable products on the market—substantially reducing logistics costs and installation complexity. Additionally, its FS Uno ground mount system, which utilizes beams and purlins made of high-performance steel (with an inverted trapezoidal open design), achieves spans of up to 6.5 meters, reducing the number of foundation piles needed and further lowering costs.

2. OMCO Solar: Technical Specifications for C-Piles and Ground Screws
U.S.-based manufacturer OMCO Solar showcased its C-Pile and Ground Screw solutions in 2023. Its C-Pile is roll-formed from high-yield-strength steel and pre-coated with G235 zinc, offering a more uniform and reliable lifespan compared to traditional hot-dip galvanizing. The product provides higher moment of inertia and section modulus, effectively reducing deflection and improving bending resistance.

For sites with complex soil conditions or shallow bedrock, OMCO promoted its ground screw solution. This approach avoids pile refusal issues and enables rapid installation, with each team capable of installing up to 30 piles per hour. It offers infinite rotational adjustability and 21 inches of vertical adjustment flexibility.

III. Market Trends: Global Exhibition Participation and Full-Process Services

In 2023, solar mount manufacturers actively expanded their markets through international exhibitions while offering full-process services from R&D to installation.

1. Active Participation in International Exhibitions

Saudi Solar Show (October): Targeting the Middle East’s hot, arid, and sandy climate, Jixin Green Building Technology showcased various special-section steel pile products in Saudi Arabia. Leveraging its parent company’s expertise in section steel R&D, the company offers a full-process supply chain covering R&D, design, fabrication, and technical services.

ZeroEmission Mediterranean Exhibition, Italy (October): Huge Energy exhibited its C+U Steel Ground PV Mount System. The system features a specially treated surface with strong corrosion resistance, wind resistance, and snow load capacity. Its robust structural design ensures stability in harsh environments, resulting in on-site orders totaling 15 MW.

2. Vertical Integration and Supply Chain Advantages
To enhance competitiveness, manufacturers strengthened their vertical integration capabilities. For example, Attala Steel Industries in the U.S., a vertically integrated manufacturer combining milling, fabrication, and galvanizing capabilities, provides cost-effective galvanized I-beam piles, support structures, and H-piles for utility-scale ground PV power stations.