First Solar Teams Up with Terrasmart to Deliver Integrated Solar Panel and Racking Solutions

Turnkey solar racking provider Terrasmart has integrated both its fixed-tilt racks and its TerraTrak 1P Single Axis Tracker (SAT) with First Solar’s Series 7 TR1 module.

Combined with a portfolio of ground screws, driven piles and ballasted foundations, the Terrasmart and First Solar partnership can provide a domestically produced ground-mount offering for the U.S. solar market, because the systems are manufactured with 100% American-produced structural steel and iron, and use a majority of domestically sourced manufactured components. Customers who pair Terrasmart products with the First Solar Series 7 TR1 can meet the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) domestic content requirements.

“We are grateful for this long-standing partnership with First Solar,” said Terrasmart President Ed McKiernan. “Working closely together on joint product development and adaptation delivers strong mutual benefits for our customers and the American solar industry at large.”

Terrasmart foundations specialize in addressing differing soil conditions, with specialized piles and ballasted systems to make solar available across a wider range of challenging terrains, climates and sensitive sites. First Solar has the capability to produce 100% domestic modules in the United States.

“By partnering, Terrasmart and First Solar provide American developers with a clearer and more flexible route to securing the 10% domestic content bonus credit, thereby maximizing project savings and ROI,” McKiernan said.

Terrasmart focused its SAT integration efforts on TerraTrak 1P, gearing its module attachment bracket system to hold the Series 7 at different locations to meet the project’s loading requirements. The companies tested the products to ensure the rack and module integration meets the reliability and electrical safety standards.

“First Solar’s collaboration with Terrasmart’s engineering teams has delivered a high-quality, cost-effective mounting solution,” said Fritz Hittner, applications engineer at First Solar. “Their broad suite of U.S. made ground-mount structures allow for fast and effective system installation while focusing on long-term durability across 1P tracker, fixed tilt and carport market segments. We are proud to work closely with Terrasmart to deliver innovative solutions that contribute to domestic solar and meet our country’s growing energy needs.”

News item from Terrasmart