When planning a solar installation, one of the most commonly overlooked details is the number and type of mounting brackets required to safely secure each panel. While panels may seem light, they must withstand years of exposure to wind, rain, snow, and thermal expansion. The mounting system is what keeps the array secure, aligned, and functional—making the choice and quantity of brackets an essential design consideration.

Understanding the Role of Mounting Brackets

Mounting brackets serve as the physical interface between the solar panels and the structure supporting them—whether that’s a rooftop, ground system, carport, or façade. They bear the mechanical loads, absorb vibrations, and ensure proper orientation. Poor bracket configuration can lead to uneven stress distribution, panel damage, or even complete structural failure in extreme conditions.

In most cases, brackets are part of a larger system that includes rails, clamps, and fasteners. The brackets attach to the base surface (e.g., roof rafters or ground posts), and the rails span across them to hold the panels.

Typical Bracket Requirements Per Panel

The number of mounting brackets per solar panel depends on several key factors:

• Panel Size and Weight
  Standard solar panels (usually around 1.6–2 meters long and 1 meter wide) weigh 18–25 kg. The larger and heavier the panel, the more support points are needed to avoid flexing or warping.

• Mounting Surface Type
  Rooftop installations often require more brackets per panel than ground-mounted systems due to the need to distribute weight evenly across rafters. On flat roofs or ground mounts, rail-based systems with fewer but heavier-duty brackets may suffice.

• Wind and Snow Loads
  Areas with high wind speeds or heavy snow must adhere to stricter mounting guidelines. Extra brackets may be added for redundancy and safety, especially on edge or corner panels that are more exposed.

• Mounting System Design
  Some systems use shared rails or interlocking brackets between panels, reducing the total number needed. Others follow a one-panel-per-rail approach that may require more brackets overall.

As a general rule:

• Two to four mounting brackets per panel is standard for most systems.

• For portrait orientation, panels are usually mounted with two rails, with one bracket at each rail end (total of four brackets).

• In landscape orientation, three brackets per panel can be enough, especially with high-strength rails and low wind zones.

The Importance of Bracket Quality and Placement

Quantity alone isn't enough—the quality and placement of brackets are equally critical. Improper placement may result in hotspots on the panel due to stress or even micro-cracks that reduce output over time.

Brackets should align with the manufacturer's recommended support zones, typically found in the installation manual. These zones ensure that the pressure from mounting is evenly distributed and does not interfere with the panel’s internal structure.

SIC Solar, a company specializing in the production and sale of photovoltaic mounting brackets, offers a wide range of mounting solutions tailored to various installation types and climate zones. Their systems are engineered for strength, durability, and ease of installation. Many of their brackets come with pre-punched holes and adjustable connections to simplify mounting and reduce on-site labor.

Modular and Custom Mounting Solutions

Not every project fits within standard guidelines. Custom-designed arrays, uneven rooftops, or dual-tilt ground systems may require modified bracket layouts. In these cases, it's advisable to consult the mounting system provider or a structural engineer.

SIC Solar often provides support for custom installations, offering flexible bracket configurations and engineering assistance to match unique project needs. Whether for metal roofs, concrete surfaces, or agricultural land, their mounting hardware can be adapted to various layouts while maintaining system integrity.