#United States #Buffalo #First Solar #Terrasmart #TR1 Modules

Terrasmart and First Solar Collaboration

In a significant development for the solar industry, Terrasmart has recently announced the successful integration of its ground-mount racking systems, which includes both fixed-tilt racks and the TerraTrak 1P Single Axis Tracker (SAT), with First Solar's Series 7 TR1 modules. This collaboration marks a notable step towards enhancing the efficiency and compliance of solar solutions in the United States, particularly under the new domestic content requirements set forth by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

A Comprehensive Domestic Solution

The partnership combines Terrasmart's comprehensive portfolio that features various ground mounting solutions, such as ground screws, driven piles, and ballasted foundations, with First Solar’s advanced module technology. This integration not only improves the flexibility of solar installations across diverse terrains but also assures customers that they are using products made with 100% American-produced structural steel and iron, as well as a majority of domestically sourced components. This alignment allows customers to confidently meet the IRA's domestic content requirements while maximizing their return on investment.

Ed McKiernan, President of Terrasmart, expressed his gratitude for the longstanding partnership with First Solar. He highlighted that the collaborative efforts on product development are mutually beneficial for both companies and the broader American solar industry.

Meeting Domestic Content Standards

Terrasmart has a notable track record of leveraging its fixed-tilt and foundation solutions for domestic content advantages. The company continues to work towards enhancing its supply chain for tracker components, facilitating the broader adoption of solar energy solutions in various challenging climates and sensitive areas. By being one of the pioneering providers of ground screw foundations within the U.S. market, Terrasmart has positioned itself to offer versatile and effective mounting solutions tailored to the complexities of solar energy deployment.

The unique capability of First Solar allows it to produce 100% domestic modules, which delivers substantial incentive benefits when scaled effectively. This strategic advantage enables American developers to navigate more efficiently through the process required to secure the 10% domestic content bonus credit, ultimately leading to enhanced project savings and ROI.

Strengthening Engineering Capabilities

The recent integration efforts centered around the TerraTrak 1P, with enhancements made to its module attachment bracket system. This allows the Series 7 TR1 modules to be securely fitted in various locations to satisfy diverse project loading requirements. The partnership has involved extensive collaborative testing among First Solar, Terrasmart, and the CSA group, which ensures rigorous compliance with the highest reliability and electrical safety standards.

Fritz Hittner, an Applications Engineer at First Solar, emphasized the value of collaboration, stating that the combined engineering efforts have resulted in a high-quality, cost-effective mounting solution. The extensive suite of American-made ground-mount structures provided by Terrasmart allows for rapid installations that prioritize durability across multiple segments, including 1P tracker, fixed tilt, and carport markets.

Future Prospects

As both Terrasmart and First Solar continue to innovate and adapt to the evolving solar landscape, their combined efforts contribute significantly to meeting the nation's growing energy demands through domestic resources. This partnership signifies not only a step towards compliance with legislative requirements but also a commitment to sustainable energy solutions that are beneficial for both businesses and the environment.

For more information about Terrasmart and its offerings, visit Terrasmart.com.