A Real Situation from a Client Last Week

Last week, a client from Kazakhstan contacted us with a serious issue. One of their previously (by their previous supplier) installed solar projects experienced structural damage during winter. After a period of heavy snowfall, several mounting structures were bent and partially collapsed under the snow pressure. The client shared photos of the damaged installation and asked if we could assist in analyzing the cause and providing a solution. After reviewing the situation with our engineering team, the conclusion became quite clear. The system had not been designed for the actual snow load conditions of the project location. As a result, the structure's load capacity was significantly lower than the real environmental load.

What Went Wrong in the Design?

From an engineering perspective, the problem usually comes from several common design mistakes:

1. Underestimated local snow load

In many northern regions, the design snow load can reach 1.5–2.5 kN/m² or even higher, depending on elevation and local climate.

If the design assumptions are too conservative, the structure may face loads far beyond its capacity.

2.  Excessive support columns / rail span.

Excessively wider spans of support columns/guide rails reduce material usage but significantly increase deflection risk under heavy snow.

Once rails/beams/supports begin to bend, the load distribution becomes uneven and structural failure can follow.

3.  Insufficient structural stiffness

Even if the material strength seems sufficient, structural stiffness plays a critical role in preventing deformation.

This is often overlooked when cost reduction becomes the priority.

Why Snow Load Can Be More Critical Than Wind Load

Many Supplier first ask “What is the maximum wind speed?”

But in many northern regions/Asia such as Kazakhstan （Central Asia, Northern Europe, Canada, Northern United States, snow load can actually be the governing factor in structural design. Unlike wind load, which is dynamic and temporary, snow load creates continuous vertical pressure that can last for days or weeks. This sustained load is often what leads to beam bending and mounting system deformation.

Key Engineering Lesson

Solar mounting systems should always be treated as structural engineering components, not simple accessories.A reliable design must carefully consider:

1. Local wind and snow load data

2. Support / Rail span and structural stiffness

3. Safety factors in structural calculation

4. Connection strength and material performance

Ignoring any of these factors can significantly increase the risk of structural failure.

In Corigy Solar, we have always believed that performing the preliminary work thoroughly demonstrates our responsibility to our clients.When we got a enquirer, the first thing we do is to ask the project information (including max wind speed and snow load) from customer. Then our engineer team will do some structure calculation to ensure the materiel we provide can withstand the max wind speed and snow load.

Look, this is the most genuine feedback from our customers!

"Corigy is very helpful, and their service is top-notch." This customer not only praised the product but also affirmed the service of our team.

From solution communication and product delivery to after-sales support, Corigy's sales staff and her technical support team always respond to customer needs with the fastest speed. Seeing the customer's "strong recommendation" transforms all our efforts into a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Let us carry this honor forward and continue to create more value for our customers in the new day!

Clean energy and agriculture can grow together. JinMega’s agrivoltaic mounting solutions are designed to support stable solar generation while preserving agricultural production, creating long-term dual value for land use.

This collection brings together four specialized agrivoltaic systems, covering different crops, terrains, and application scenarios, from farmland and orchards to large-scale agricultural operations.

Smart design. Flexible structures. Scalable deployment. One land resource. Dual value creation. https://www.jinmegasolar.com/agriculture-solar-mounting-systems

We’re pleased to share a new rooftop solar project completed in Ishigaki Island, Okinawa, Japan. With a total installed capacity of 12.35 kW, this system uses JinMega’s rooftop mounting solution, helping deliver stable solar generation in a coastal island environment.

·A streamlined structure helps speed up installation and makes better use of rooftop space, keeping the project running smoothly.

·Designed to adapt to different roof types and layouts, offering practical solutions for various on-site conditions.

·Built with a strong and reliable structure, ensuring stable, long-term performance in outdoor environments, including coastal areas.

This project shows how JinMega rooftop solutions work across diverse environments while providing reliable solar support for both residential and commercial applications. Learn more about JinMega Rooftop Mounting Systems: https://www.jinmegasolar.com

In solar mounting systems, safety and electrical performance matter just as much as structural strength. One small but key part often mentioned during installation is the grounding screw. Many installers and project owners wonder if using a grounding screw in a photovoltaic system is really necessary.

A grounding screw helps create a solid electrical connection between metal parts and the grounding system. Since mounting rails, modules, and brackets are usually metal, they can carry electricity. If there’s a problem like insulation failure or a short circuit, these parts might become energized. The grounding screw directs that unwanted electricity safely into the ground, lowering the chances of electric shock or damage.

In most situations, grounding screws are not just recommended—they’re required. Electrical codes and safety rules in many countries say solar mounting systems need proper grounding. This keeps the system safe during normal use and especially when faults or lightning strikes happen. Without the right grounding, the system could be dangerous for people and equipment.

Grounding screws also help keep electrical continuity throughout the whole mounting setup. Solar panel systems include many connected pieces like rails, clamps, and frames. The grounding screw creates a continuous conductive path that allows electricity to flow safely to the ground point. This is especially important in large solar arrays with many panel rows linked together.

These screws also make installation easier. Instead of adding separate grounding wires for every part, installers can use specially made screws to bond metal components directly. This saves time and keeps the system neater. Many modern mounting setups include built-in grounding features to streamline this.

Manufacturers like SIC Solar design their photovoltaic mounting systems with grounding solutions built in. Using compatible grounding screws and parts helps installers meet safety standards and keep installation straightforward. Well-designed mounting structures can improve both electrical safety and mechanical stability.

Long-term reliability is another factor. Grounding screws are usually made from corrosion-resistant materials so they maintain a good electrical connection over time. Since solar systems face outdoor conditions for many years, using quality grounding parts helps avoid problems like loose connections or higher resistance.

Sometimes other grounding methods may be used depending on system design and local rules. Still, grounding screws remain one of the most common and effective ways to bond solar mounting components. Deciding to use them should always be based on system needs, safety standards, and installation guidance.

As rooftop solar becomes more common, many wonder if the mounts will damage their roofs. Since these mounts connect directly to the roof, it's important to understand how they work and if they pose any risks.

Generally, properly installed solar mounts don’t harm the roof. In fact, a good installation can protect parts of the roof by shielding them from sun, rain, and temperature changes. The real issue is how well the system is installed and the quality of its parts.

Solar mounts attach panels to different roof types like tile, metal, or flat roofs. On pitched roofs, installers usually fix hooks or brackets to the rafters under the roof. These spots are sealed carefully to avoid leaks. When done right, the roof stays waterproof.

Drilling into the roof for mounts can be a concern, but professionals use flashing and seals to keep water out. High-quality systems are built to stay watertight over time.

Some roofs allow for non-penetrating mounts. For example, standing seam metal roofs can use clamps that attach without drilling, and flat roofs often use weighted systems that hold panels down without roof penetration, lowering damage risk.

Load distribution matters too. Mounts spread the panel weight evenly so no spot gets overloaded. Roofs are checked before installation to make sure they can handle the extra weight.

Using durable parts is key. Brands like SIC Solar make mounts designed to last and resist weather, fitting various roofs while keeping everything stable and sealed.

Poor installation, however, can cause leaks or damage, so it’s crucial to hire experienced installers who use certified materials and follow proper steps.

In short, solar mounts are made to work safely with roofs. When installed well, they don’t cause damage but provide a secure, lasting way to support rooftop solar systems while keeping the building intact.

In solar ground mounting systems, having a durable foundation is key to keeping things stable and working well over time. Ground screws have become a popular choice instead of traditional concrete foundations. Still, many developers and installers want to know how long these screws last under real conditions.

Typically, ground screws are built to last about 25 to 30 years or even longer, which fits with how long most solar panels are expected to work. Since solar projects usually run for decades, the foundation needs to support the system consistently throughout its life.

One big factor in how long ground screws last is the material. Most are made from strong steel and coated with hot-dip galvanization. This coating prevents rust by creating a layer between the steel and the environment. In regular soil, galvanized ground screws can hold up structurally for many years.

The environment also affects their lifespan. In neutral soil with moderate moisture, corrosion happens slowly, so screws can reach their expected life. But in harsher places—like near the coast with salty air or in acidic soil—corrosion may speed up. There, thicker coatings or extra protection might be needed to keep them durable.

How the screws are installed and the soil type matter too. Good installation means the screw is placed at the right depth and stays stable. If it’s installed wrong—shallow or misaligned—it might wear out sooner or not perform well. So, having professionals do the installation and proper engineering design is important to get the longest life.

The load and structure design also play a role. Ground screws must be chosen based on the weight of the solar setup and environmental forces like wind or snow. When designed well, the foundation handles these loads evenly, which lowers stress on parts and helps the foundation last longer.

Ground screws don’t need much maintenance compared to other foundations. Since they go below ground, they are less likely to get damaged. Still, it’s a good idea to check the above-ground connections and mounting parts every now and then to keep the system secure.

It’s also important that ground screws match well with the solar mounting system. Companies like SIC Solar make structures that fit perfectly with ground screws, which helps keep everything connected tightly and reduces mechanical issues over time.

Overall, ground screws have shown to be a strong and reliable foundation for solar projects. With good materials, proper protection against corrosion, and correct installation, they can provide steady support for solar systems over many years, matching the lifespan expected from modern solar setups, including those using SIC Solar mounting products.

For solar panel projects, the base is super important for keeping everything steady. Concrete has been the go-to for solar panel mounts for a long time. But now, ground screws are becoming a popular choice. So, can these screws actually take concrete's place?

Ground screws are steel rods that you drill into the ground with special machines. They're designed to dig in easily and stay put, resisting being pulled out or pushed sideways. Once they're in, they make a solid spot to attach the solar panel racks.

One big plus of using ground screws is how fast they are to install. Concrete needs digging, forms, pouring, and time to dry before you can build on it, which can take days. Ground screws, on the other hand, can often be put in within minutes. This really speeds things up and saves on labor, which is great for big solar plants.

They're also better for the land. Ground screws don't need much digging, so they don't mess up the soil or the area around it. This is good if you're building on farms, fields, or places that are delicate. Plus, you can take the screws out when the solar panels are done, making it easier to get the land back to its original state compared to concrete.

If they're designed right, ground screws can hold a lot of weight. Engineers figure out how long and thick they need to be, and how deep they should go, based on the soil and what the panels will weigh. If done correctly, ground screws can hold up solar panels against wind, snow, and other weather.

Lots of new solar panel mounts are made to work with ground screws. Companies like SIC Solar make frames that fit right onto ground screws, so installers can just connect the posts and brackets. This makes putting everything together easier and faster.

But, ground screws aren't perfect for everywhere. If the ground is really rocky or has solid rock close to the surface, it can be hard or impossible to put them in. In these spots, concrete might still be the way to go. It's key to check out the site and test the soil before you pick what kind of base to use.

These days, you see ground screws in lots of solar projects because they're quick, good for the environment, and reliable. As solar plants get bigger, ground screws are becoming a go-to option for holding up solar panels, including the ones from companies like SIC Solar.