New Frontier in Polar Regions: IEA Report Highlights Fixed Tilt’s Advantages in Snowy Environments

A latest report from the International Energy Agency (IEA) Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme (PVPS) Task 13 points out that in the Arctic and high-latitude regions (above 60°N), fixed-tilt mounting systems have become the optimal solution for PV deployment.

The report notes that despite severe cold and frequent snowfall, the combination of high albedo (snow reflecting sunlight) and bifacial modules with fixed-tilt mounts offers unique advantages. Fixed-tilt mounts, with their simple structure and reliable operation under freeze-thaw cycles, are the preferred choice in extreme environments. Additionally, to minimize snow accumulation, ground-mounted fixed-tilt systems typically adopt larger row spacing and higher installation heights to ensure generation stability. The researchers highlight that as global PV installation costs continue to decline, expansion into high-latitude regions will provide valuable operation and maintenance experience for the entire industry.

Technology Integration: Robotic Automation and Smart Installation Pave the Way for Cost Reduction

In terms of installation efficiency, fixed-tilt systems are undergoing an automation revolution. In a recently signed 105 MWp PV project in Saudi Arabia, the project owner will, for the first time in the region, adopt fully automated robotic module installation. The project will deploy 10 self-developed installation robots to mount over 149,000 modules on fixed-tilt supports.

Compared with manual installation, robotic automation can increase installation speed by three to five times, achieve millimeter-level accuracy, cut installation costs by more than 50%, and reduce project timelines by 25%. This technological breakthrough effectively addresses the high labor costs and tight schedules faced in large-scale ground-mounted power plant construction, endowing fixed-tilt mounts with greater economic viability for large-scale projects.

Market Landscape: Intense Competition, Continuous Optimization of Materials and Structures

According to the latest industry research reports, the global fixed-tilt ground-mount system market is experiencing rapid growth in 2026. Products are mainly divided into aluminum alloy PV mounts and zinc-aluminum-magnesium coated steel PV mounts, widely used in commercial, residential, and industrial scenarios.

From a competitive landscape perspective, leading global manufacturers include Nextracker, Arctech, and Array Technologies. The Chinese market is dominated by players such as Arctech, Jiangsu Guoqiang, and Guorui New Energy. Meanwhile, as PV modules evolve toward larger sizes and bifacial designs, mounting system companies are continuously optimizing structures. At the recently concluded KEY 2026 Energy Exhibition in Italy, several companies showcased ground-mount fixed-tilt systems tailored for complex terrains and climatic conditions, emphasizing structural versatility and long-term reliability.

Outlook: Regional Customization and Lifecycle Services Become Key

As PV application scenarios diversify, the industry’s requirements for mounting systems have shifted from simple support to enhancing full lifecycle value. In emerging markets such as India, where wind loads, soil conditions, and seismic zones vary widely, manufacturers are promoting geography-based engineering designs to enhance structural strength and ensure long-term reliability.

Although single-axis trackers offer advantages in boosting energy yield (typically 15%–25% more), their higher upfront investment (11%–14% more than fixed-tilt systems) and increased O&M complexity mean that fixed-tilt systems maintain an unshakable market position in scenarios where land costs are low or simplicity of operation and maintenance is prioritized.