As Aristotelis Chantavas, president of SolarPower Europe, astutely points out, “The world has realized that fossil fuel crises are the crises that never really go away.”
Fossil fuels, the bedrock of our industrial revolution, have long been intertwined with our daily lives. From powering our vehicles to heating our homes, they have been the lifeblood of our modern civilization. However, their dominance comes at a steep price—an insidious environmental toll and a looming energy crisis.
Imagine a world where we wake up one day to find our fuel reserves depleted, our cities engulfed in smog, and our climate on the brink of catastrophe. It sounds like a doomsday scenario straight out of a Hollywood blockbuster, right? Well, that’s the stark reality we face unless we proactively address the challenges of fossil fuel dependency.
In addition to their scarcity, the burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change and intensifying natural disasters. To counter these issues, solar power emerges as a key player in the renewable revolution, harnessing the astonishing energy radiated by the sun to generate electricity.
According to a report by Solar Power Europe, solar power generation is predicted to meet 57% of the European Union’s energy demand, with over 50 countries expected to install more than 1 GW of solar power capacity annually by 2025. Furthermore, a report by Market Research Future estimates that the solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting systems market will reach a value of approximately USD 24,026.70 million by 2030, indicating significant growth and potential in the coming years.
The latest trends and innovative technologies
Table of Contents
Adaptation to local conditions
The rapid development of solar energy technology has opened up new possibilities for harnessing the power of the sun. Traditional solar panels have come a long way in terms of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. However, researchers and engineers are constantly pushing the boundaries to develop multifunctional solar technologies that go beyond electricity generation.
Photovoltaic panels offer an effective means of assisting in the collection of rainwater for non-potable everyday activities.
This functionality is particularly advantageous in regions facing water scarcity.
Some states in the United States have already begun implementing photovoltaic systems for rainwater harvesting.
However, there are concerns among certain individuals regarding the possibility of metal contamination.
Additionally, to ensure the health and well-being of users, the expansion of solar systems for rainwater collection necessitates the incorporation of various filtration levels and adherence to specific standards.
These measures are designed to address any potential water quality issues and guarantee that the collected rainwater is suitable for its intended non-potable applications.
Solar systems in arid regions
In arid regions, installing solar panels not only collects rainwater from the sky but also helps increase soil moisture underneath. The panels provide shade, reducing evaporation and water loss from the soil. This, in turn, helps conserve water resources and reduce irrigation requirements, making solar panel installations compatible with water-scarce areas.
Flexibility in solar panel installation is also being emphasized to address the diverse needs of different regions. Not all areas have vast open spaces for large-scale ground-mounted solar farms.
Solar panel installations can be designed to serve multiple purposes, combining renewable energy generation with other land uses. For example, solar panels can be installed on agricultural lands without compromising the productivity of the land. This dual land-use approach allows farmers to continue agricultural activities while also harnessing solar energy.
Cooler City
Solar panel installations can provide shading for outdoor spaces, such as parking lots or recreational areas. The shade from the panels can help reduce heat buildup, creating more comfortable and cooler environments for people. This shading function improves the usability and comfort of outdoor spaces, especially in hot climates.
Floating photovoltaic system
In addition to rooftop installations and solar carports, which offer viable alternatives, these options maximize the use of existing structures and utilize otherwise unused spaces. Floating frames are also being considered, where solar panels are installed on bodies of water to harness energy.
Floating solar power, also known as floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems, is an innovative approach to solar energy generation. Instead of occupying land or rooftops, solar panels are mounted on floating platforms that are placed on bodies of water such as lakes, reservoirs, and even offshore areas.
Floating solar panels also benefit from the cooling effect of water. The panels operate at lower temperatures compared to traditional rooftop installations, which can enhance their efficiency and overall performance.
Additionally, the water surface acts as a natural mirror, reflecting sunlight onto the solar panels and further increasing their energy output.
Moreover, floating solar has the potential to address certain challenges associated with traditional solar installations. For example, in arid regions where water bodies are available but land is scarce, floating solar can provide a sustainable solution. It also helps reduce water evaporation from reservoirs, conserving water resources and improving overall water management.
FPV and aquatic ecosystem
The Energy Research Center at the University of Florida is researching the impact of floating solar systems on aquatic ecosystems. FPV can potentially improve water ecosystems by reducing light penetration and lowering water temperatures, which can help mitigate the growth of harmful algae.
Despite its advantages, floating solar also poses unique challenges. Factors such as water depth, wave action, and environmental impacts need to be carefully considered during the planning and implementation stages.
By considering the specific conditions and needs of different regions, solar panel installations can go beyond renewable energy generation and provide additional environmental benefits. Solar installations can be customized to maximize their positive impact on the environment and surrounding communities, from conserving water resources to mitigating wind impacts and creating dual land-use opportunities.
Reduce human labor cost: Intelligence and Automation
Intelligent control systems play a crucial role in optimizing the performance and efficiency of solar panel installations. These systems utilize advanced algorithms and sensors to monitor various parameters such as solar irradiation, temperature, and panel voltage. Based on this data, the IC system adjusts the operation of the solar panels to ensure maximum energy production. It can regulate the tilt and orientation of the panels, track the sun’s movement, and optimize the power output throughout the day. This intelligent control technology allows for the precise management of solar panel systems, maximizing their efficiency and overall energy generation.
Remote monitoring takes the capabilities of intelligent control systems even further by enabling real-time monitoring and control of solar panel installations from a central location.
Remote monitoring systems allow solar system users to have a clear understanding of the operational status of their solar panels at all times, providing timely maintenance reminders without the need for frequent manual checks.
Through the use of sensors, data communication technologies, and cloud-based platforms, system operators can remotely access and analyze the performance data of individual panels or entire arrays.
This remote monitoring capability allows for proactive maintenance, rapid fault detection, and performance optimization.
It enables technicians to analyze and resolve issues without the need to physically be present at the site. It also enhances the overall reliability and lifespan of the solar panel system by ensuring timely interventions and minimizing downtime.
Robotic arms are also making their mark in the renewable energy sector now. This innovative approach aims to accelerate the deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, enhance safety at construction sites, and reduce installation costs.
These robots are guided by cameras to handle, position, and secure solar PV modules, significantly improving the efficiency of large-scale ground installations.
Currently, automatic installation technology has immense potential for improvement as it progresses toward adapting to various solar PV array system installations.
Material improvement: Lightweighting and sustainability
Lightweighting and sustainability are two crucial aspects when it comes to solar mounts, as they play a significant role in optimizing the performance and environmental impact of solar panel installations.
Lightweighting refers to the process of designing and manufacturing solar mounts that are lighter in weight without compromising their structural integrity and functionality. By reducing the weight of the mounts, several benefits can be achieved. Firstly, it simplifies the installation process, making it more efficient and cost-effective. Lighter mounts are easier to handle and transport, requiring less equipment and labor during installation. This can save both time and resources, contributing to overall project efficiency.
Furthermore, lightweight solar mounts can have a positive impact on the overall structural requirements of the installation.
With reduced weight, the structural load on buildings, rooftops, or ground foundations is lessened. This not only simplifies the engineering and construction aspects but also allows for greater flexibility in selecting installation sites.
Lightweight mounts can be installed on a wider range of structures, including those with lower load-bearing capacities, expanding the possibilities for solar panel deployment.
Sustainable development and environmental protection
Trends in the use of renewable materials and low carbon manufacturing technologies
Photovoltaic racking systems are typically made of metals such as aluminum or steel. Compared to steel mounts, aluminum alloy mounts can reduce environmental impact, since they have the following advantages:
Energy Efficiency
Aluminum alloy is lighter than steel, which means less energy is required for transportation and installation. This not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimizes the carbon emissions associated with transportation logistics.
Recyclability
Aluminum is a highly recyclable material, and the recycling process requires only a fraction of the energy compared to primary aluminum production. By using aluminum alloy mounts, the industry can contribute to the circular economy by promoting the recycling and reuse of materials, reducing the need for virgin aluminum extraction.
Dry Coating Process
The dry coating process used for aluminum alloy mounts is environmentally friendly compared to the hot-dip galvanizing process. It eliminates the need for acid cleaning, electroplating, and excessive water usage, reducing chemical waste and water pollution. Dry coating technologies also offer a wide range of color options, providing aesthetic benefits to solar installations.
In addition to metal photovoltaic mounts, HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) mounts have emerged as a lightweight alternative.
HDPE plastic can be used in floating solar panel mounting systems. HDPE is recyclable, stackable, and easy to move, making them cost-effective for transportation and faster to install. HDPE’s lightweight nature reduces transportation costs, as it requires less fuel and logistics compared to heavier materials.
The solar mounting industry is actively seeking materials that can prolong the lifespan of the mounting structures.
Improving the technology of both metallic and non-metallic materials is crucial in this regard. In addition to advancements in solar power generation technology itself, the production and recycling of photovoltaic modules are also important steps in achieving sustainability goals.
Disposal of photovoltaic racking
The typical lifespan of photovoltaic modules is around 20 to 30 years. As more and more solar panels reach the end of their life cycle, photovoltaic recycling is becoming increasingly common, presenting significant business opportunities.
Discarding retired photovoltaic modules in regular landfill sites is undesirable as the modules degrade, and harmful chemicals can leach into the ground, causing water pollution.
However, many countries currently lack legislation and standards regarding the recycling of photovoltaic modules and the establishment of recycling points. This results in a substantial waste of recyclable materials and the accumulation of waste in landfills.
There are two main methods for recycling solar panel mounts:
Physical Recycling: This method involves the disassembly of the mounts, separating the metal components from the non-metal components. The metal parts can be recycled for reuse, while the non-metal parts can be repurposed or undergo comprehensive waste management, including hazardous waste treatment.
Chemical Recycling: This method involves the thermal treatment of the metal components in the mounts and the chemical decomposition of the non-metal components. The valuable metal components are recovered through chemical processes, while the non-valuable metal components are treated to minimize environmental pollution.
According to a report published by the International Energy Agency in 2016, Australia, a global leader in solar energy utilization, is projected to generate approximately 145,000 tons of PV panel waste by 2030. However, the recycling of PV modules faces several challenges.
The lack of dedicated recycling facilities and collection station
Insufficient infrastructure makes it difficult for users to properly dispose of their PV modules and contribute to the recycling process. Without convenient and accessible recycling points, the proper management of PV panel waste becomes a significant hurdle.
High recycling costs
The associated fees and logistics involved in transporting PV modules to recycling facilities pose a significant barrier. The cost and effort required to transport modules to the appropriate recycling points can deter users from participating in the recycling process. This leads to a higher likelihood of improper disposal or hoarding of discarded PV modules.
Technical obstacles
There are technical obstacles to overcome in terms of effectively reusing high-purity materials from PV modules. Current recycling technologies may not be fully optimized for extracting and reprocessing the valuable components of PV panels. Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of these recycling methods is crucial to maximize resource recovery and minimize environmental impact.
Just getting started
While the solar PV module recycling market in Europe is progressing steadily, other countries and regions around the world are just beginning to develop their recycling capabilities. As the deployment of solar systems continues to accelerate globally, the need for efficient and scalable PV module recycling becomes increasingly urgent.
The establishment of recycling infrastructure and management regulations is an important step for the solar energy industry to fulfill its environmental responsibility. These management regulations encourage more manufacturers to adopt proper recycling practices.
Implementing management regulations is crucial to ensure that manufacturers take responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including proper disposal and recycling. These regulations can include requirements for manufacturers to design products with recycling in mind, establish take-back programs for end-of-life products, and adhere to environmentally sound recycling practices.
By promoting proper recycling practices and creating a closed-loop system, the industry can contribute to resource conservation, waste reduction, and the overall sustainability of the solar energy sector.
Global landscape prospect of PV industry
Market growth and expansion
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the solar PV racking systems industry is poised for significant growth as countries focus on renewable energy and sustainability. The Asia-Pacific region, driven by China and India, is expected to be a key market for solar PV racking systems. Europe, with countries like Germany and the UK, will also contribute significantly to the global market.
According to Market Research Future (MRFR), rooftop installations are expected to dominate the market, primarily due to their lower investment cost, longer lifespan, and ease of installation compared to other mounting methods. Additionally, homeowners can benefit from government incentives for clean energy adoption.
Drivers of the photovoltaic (PV) market include:
Increasing Environmental Awareness
Rising global environmental concerns and the estimated 150,000 annual deaths attributed to climate change by the World Health Organization have led to a growing emphasis on low-carbon emissions and renewable energy sources. Since 2013, the share of fossil fuel and nuclear power in global electricity production has been declining, while the proportion of renewable energy generation has been steadily increasing.
This indicates a sustained demand market for renewable energy generation, including the solar PV industry, which is likely to experience long-term expansion.
Supportive Policies from International Organizations and Governments
Countries like China have implemented plans, such as the “Implementation Plan for Promoting High-Quality Development of New Energy in the New Era,” aiming to achieve a 50% coverage of PV in newly constructed public buildings by 2025, accelerate the development of a new energy-based power system, and improve fiscal and financial policies supporting new energy development.
The EU’s “Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings” requires all new residential, commercial, and public buildings in member states to have rooftop PV installations by 2029. The “2030 Renewable Energy Draft” increases the renewable energy generation target from 40% to 45%.
The “2022 Inflation Reduction Act” passed by the US Senate in August 2022 maintains the Investment Tax Credit at 30% until 2032 to boost PV installation demand and promote the development of the PV industry.
Economic Incentives
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has led to a surge in electricity costs in Europe.
In contrast, the cost of solar power has declined by 90% over the past decade, making the construction of new solar power plants in Europe around ten times cheaper than continuing to operate gas-fired power plants.
In the context of fluctuating energy prices and energy crises, countries are actively promoting the transition to renewable energy sources.
According to the International Renewable Energy Agency’s (IRENA) “World Energy Transition Outlook” report, global solar PV capacity reached 756 GW by the end of last year. By 2050, global PV capacity could exceed 14,000 GW.
These factors collectively contribute to the growing trend and forecasted expansion of the global solar PV market. The combination of increased environmental consciousness, supportive policies, and economic viability positions the solar PV industry for significant growth and adoption in the coming years.
Technological innovations
The solar industry has witnessed a shift in installation methods, with a growing emphasis on the dual use of land for solar projects.
These new installation approaches consider utilizing spaces such as farms, farmland, railroads, and reservoirs to not only increase solar deployment but also provide additional benefits to local ecosystems. However, installing solar panels in these unconventional locations requires extensive research and observation to address various challenges.
One of the challenges involves ensuring the compatibility of solar panels with the surrounding environment and avoiding conflicts with the original purpose of the land or structure.
For instance, installing solar panels on railroad tracks requires considerations such as panel reflection and maintenance to ensure the safety and well-being of railroad personnel and passengers.
Technological advancements also play a crucial role in the solar industry. Solar PV racking systems are incorporating lighter materials to accommodate building surfaces that cannot support heavy loads, while still maintaining stability against wind and snow loads.
Improving the conversion efficiency of solar systems and controlling the use of toxic materials are additional areas of innovation.
Enhancing conversion efficiency means achieving higher energy conversion rates with fewer panels, enabling solar systems to function optimally in challenging weather conditions or regions with limited sunlight or extreme temperatures.
Moreover, solar systems that can adapt to seasonal changes in light are being developed. The responsible management of toxic materials in solar panels facilitates easier recycling and enhances the overall sustainability of the materials used.
Solar Mounting Industry's Path to Innovation
The solar mounting industry is on an upward trajectory, fuelled by remarkable technological advancements and an unwavering commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. As we gaze into the horizon, the future of this industry appears promising, laden with numerous business opportunities and a brighter tomorrow.
Innovative technology has emerged as the driving force behind the solar mounting industry’s growth.
Cutting-edge developments, such as advanced tracking systems and efficient panel designs, have propelled solar energy to the forefront of the global energy landscape. These innovations enable us to harness the sun’s boundless energy potential more efficiently, transforming it into a viable and accessible power source.
With sustainability and environmental consciousness gaining significant momentum, the solar mounting industry is primed for exponential growth. Governments, corporations, and individuals alike recognize the urgent need to transition to cleaner energy sources, making solar power an increasingly attractive solution.
This shift is not merely a passing trend but a long-term commitment to safeguarding our planet for future generations.
As the industry continues to evolve, the direction of sustainable development becomes more crucial than ever. Stakeholders must prioritize the integration of renewable energy systems into existing infrastructure and urban planning.
By seamlessly blending solar power generation into our cities, homes, and workplaces, we can create a harmonious coexistence between human progress and environmental preservation.
Contact Us Today to Explore the Best Solar Solution for Your Needs!
Whether you need a ground-mounted system, rooftop installation, or a tracking system, ALV has the expertise to guide you through the process. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to harness the power of solar energy for your home or business. Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards a sustainable future.
