As the global energy transition enters a critical phase, ground-mounted solar structures—the “skeleton” of PV power plants—are increasingly becoming a focal point for technological innovation and market dynamics. Since the beginning of 2026, from exhibition floors in Asia to project sites across Europe and the Americas, the industry has shown distinct trends of technological sophistication, global market reach, and diversified application scenarios.

I. Exhibition Highlights: Intelligence and Full-Scenario Solutions Take Center Stage

At recent exhibitions—PV EXPO 2026 Spring in Japan and KEY 2026 in Italy—several leading companies showcased their latest products tailored for complex terrains and extreme climates.

At PV EXPO 2026 in Tokyo, Meibetter (Mibet) introduced GT7, PGT2 and other ground-mount systems specifically designed for Japan’s hilly and mountainous landscape. These systems feature hot-dip galvanizing or anodizing processes to ensure corrosion resistance, with a particular focus on vertical mounting systems suitable for bifacial modules. The elevated height and adjustable design not only save space but also facilitate operation and maintenance, making them ideal for agrivoltaics and remote-area PV installations.

Meanwhile, in Rimini, Italy, Antai New Energy highlighted its intelligent tracking system, centered on the AT-Spark tracker. Equipped with the SmartTrail intelligent control system, the tracker offers four protection modes through a proprietary smart protection strategy, effectively reducing risks from extreme weather and ensuring plant safety. The system’s hardware has passed 42 extreme tests, achieving IP65 protection and C5 corrosion resistance, precisely addressing the complex environmental demands of the European market.

II. Project Launches: Steady Progress in Global Ground-Mount PV Plants

Beyond exhibition showcases, ground-mount PV projects worldwide are advancing steadily, confirming robust market demand.

In Europe, Zenith Energy announced the start of pre-construction activities for three ground-mount projects in Italy’s Apulia region, with a total capacity of 7 MWp. The company has completed layout designs and submitted grid connection applications; physical construction is expected to begin in July 2026. The project’s expected operational lifespan of 30 years reflects investor confidence in the long-term returns of ground-mount plants.

In addition, Zelestra’s 27.5 MWdc Klevenow solar project in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, has entered the peak construction phase. Most ground-mount racks have already been installed, and more than half of the low-voltage cabling has been laid. The project is expected to be fully operational by the end of the second quarter of 2026. It also includes a 30 MWh battery storage system, illustrating the growing trend toward PV + storage hybrid projects.

On the supply side, U.S. solar tracker manufacturer FTC Solar has signed a 1 GW tracker supply agreement with developer Strata Clean Energy. Under the agreement, FTC will provide its Voyager 2P solar tracking system for Strata’s projects, extending the partnership for five years. This large-scale order indicates that large ground-mount developers are increasingly establishing long-term strategic partnerships with tracker suppliers to secure capacity and ensure timely project delivery.

III. Standards and Guidelines: Filling Gaps in Flexible and Adjustable Mounting Technologies

As PV applications expand to complex terrains—mountains, water surfaces, and more—traditional fixed mounts are no longer sufficient for all scenarios. In January 2026, the Technical Specification for Flexible PV Support Structures and the Technical Specification for Adjustable PV Support Structures, drafted with Changjiang Institute of Survey, Planning, Design and Research (CISPDR) as a key contributor, were officially released.

These two documents systematically characterize the mechanical behavior of flexible PV supports, standardizing strength and safety requirements, and resolving long-standing inconsistencies in the industry. Notably, the Technical Specification for Adjustable PV Support Structures is China’s first dedicated technical standard for adjustable mounts, specifying requirements for adjustment mechanisms, tracking accuracy, inspection, and testing. This milestone shows that China’s PV mounting industry is moving from pure product manufacturing toward standard-setting leadership, providing a technical foundation for large-scale deployment of flexible supports in challenging terrains.

IV. Market Landscape and Trends: Material Innovation and Global Footprint

From a market competition perspective, private enterprises leverage flexible operations to occupy niche segments, while leading players build technological moats through patent portfolios. To improve strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, companies are continuously developing new materials—for example, 7xxx series aluminum alloys with yield strengths up to 600 MPa, which can reduce structural material usage by 25% in large ground-mount projects.

At the same time, Chinese companies are accelerating overseas localization. Antai New Energy established a global R&D center in Madrid, Spain, to deepen its presence in the European market, building a complete service system from technical consulting to on-site installation support. In the Middle East—characterized by high temperatures, high irradiation, and sandy environments—companies are actively capturing market share by showcasing customized solutions with high protection ratings (IP65) and corrosion resistance (C5 level).