Sterling Solar & Peak Roofing

Installing solar panels is a long-term investment, but the panels are only one part of the system. The hardware that holds them in place is just as important. In places that receive heavy snowfall, choosing the right mounting hardware becomes even more important because snow adds extra weight to the roof and the solar system. Snow may look light when it first falls, but its weight can increase as it becomes wet, freezes into ice, or piles up over time. If the mounting system is not designed for these conditions, it may place too much pressure on the roof and the hardware. This can lead to damaged rails, loose fasteners, roof leaks, or expensive repairs. This guide explains how snow load affects solar mounting hardware selection, how engineers calculate snow load, and what installers and property owners should consider before installing a rooftop solar mounting system . What Is Snow Load? Snow load is the amount of weight that snow places on a structure. When snow collects on a roof, it...

The solar industry is changing as new rules affect how projects are planned and built. One topic getting a lot of attention is Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) compliance . While many people focus on solar panels, batteries, and inverters, solar racking is also an important part of the discussion. For installers, EPC companies, and project developers, understanding FEOC requirements can help avoid delays during procurement and documentation. It can also make it easier to prepare projects for federal tax credit programs that include domestic sourcing requirements. This guide explains FEOC in simple language, how it relates to solar racking, and what installers should know before selecting a supplier. What Is FEOC? FEOC stands for Foreign Entity of Concern. It refers to companies or organizations that have connections with countries identified under U.S. law as foreign entities of concern. As the United States continues investing in renewable energy, more attention is being given to wher...