The Complete Guide to Solar Structures
ENSOL Engineering TeamUpdated 2026-02-253 min read
A solar structure — or module mounting structure (MMS) — is the engineered steel frame that holds solar panels at the right angle and height and safely transfers wind, seismic and dead loads to the ground or roof. This guide covers the types, coatings, standards and decisions that define a good solar structure.
Key takeaways
- Structure type follows the application: rooftop, ground-mount, pump, carport, agrivoltaic, canal-top or tracker.
- Wind load (IS 875) usually governs design; the site's basic wind speed and soil drive the engineering.
- Coating (GP, GL, ZAM, HDGI) is matched to the environment — HDGI for ground-mount and coastal.
- Steel is specified to IS 2062; galvanising is verified to IS 4759 / ISO 1461.
Types of solar structure
Solar structures are engineered by application. Rooftop structures clamp to metal roofs or anchor/ballast on RCC; ground-mount structures sit on land with pile, pedestal or screw foundations; and specialised forms include solar pump, carport, agrivoltaic and canal-top structures. Trackers add motion to raise yield.
Loads and design basis
Wind is usually the governing load. Under IS 875 (Part 3), the site's basic wind speed, terrain and topography set the design pressure, which sizes members and foundations. Seismic actions are checked under IS 1893, though light arrays are typically wind-governed.
Coatings and durability
The coating decides service life. GP suits sheltered rooftops; GL and ZAM suit many environments; HDGI gives the thickest, edge-to-edge protection for ground-mount and coastal sites. Coating thickness should be specified and verified.
Choosing the right structure
Fix the application, assess the site's wind and soil, match the coating to the environment, and confirm the steel grade and coating thickness. Where schemes require it, designs are independently proof-checked (for example by NIT Raipur for PM-KUSUM).