Exporting Solar Panel Mounting Structures to the US — EPC Contractors

Solar panel mounting structures are the backbone of any photovoltaic installation, providing the physical support and orientation needed for panels to capture maximum sunlight. For US EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractors, sourcing reliable, cost-effective mounting systems is critical to meeting project budgets and timelines. This page explores the landscape for exporting solar panel mounting structures from Latin America and Africa to the US, covering specifications, supplier dynamics, buyer requirements, certifications, and pricing context. Coppermont advises both suppliers and buyers to navigate this growing trade corridor.

The Role of Solar Panel Mounting Structures in US Supply Chains

Solar panel mounting structures, also known as racking systems, are used in utility-scale, commercial, and residential solar installations. They must withstand wind loads, snow loads, and corrosion, while allowing for efficient installation and maintenance. The US solar market installed over 33 gigawatts (GW) of capacity in 2023, with utility-scale projects accounting for more than 60% of that total. [1] Each GW of solar requires approximately 10,000 to 15,000 metric tons of steel for mounting structures, depending on design. This translates to a significant demand for steel components, including rails, posts, clamps, and fasteners, often made from galvanized steel or aluminum.

US EPC contractors typically procure mounting structures from domestic manufacturers or importers, but supply chain disruptions and cost pressures have opened opportunities for international suppliers. Latin America, with its growing steel and aluminum industries, offers a competitive alternative. African suppliers, particularly from South Africa and Morocco, are also emerging players. The key for US buyers is ensuring quality, compliance with US standards, and reliable delivery.

Product Specifications and Grades Relevant to US Buyers

Mounting structures for US solar projects must meet specific technical requirements. The most common materials are:

• Galvanized steel (ASTM A653/A653M): Hot-dip galvanized steel with a coating weight of G90 or G140 is standard for ground-mount systems. It offers high strength and corrosion resistance, suitable for most environments.
• Aluminum (ASTM B209): 6000-series aluminum alloys, such as 6061-T6, are used for lightweight, corrosion-resistant applications, particularly in rooftop or coastal installations.
• Stainless steel (ASTM A240): For fasteners and components in harsh environments, 304 or 316 stainless steel is specified.

Key structural standards include: - ASCE 7-22: Minimum design loads for buildings and other structures, including wind and snow loads. - AISI S100: North American specification for cold-formed steel structural members. - ASTM F3125: Standard for high-strength bolts.

US buyers also require compatibility with common panel sizes (e.g., 60-cell, 72-cell, and larger bifacial modules) and tilt angles. Fixed-tilt systems typically range from 10 to 30 degrees, while single-axis trackers adjust orientation. EPC contractors often prefer modular designs that simplify field assembly and reduce labor costs.

LATAM and Africa Supplier Landscape

Latin America has a robust steel industry, with Brazil and Mexico being major producers. Brazil produced 34 million metric tons of crude steel in 2023, much of which is processed into structural components. [2] Mexico's proximity to the US and its free trade agreement (USMCA) make it a key supplier for galvanized steel products. Other countries like Chile and Argentina have emerging fabrication capabilities, though they are smaller players.

In Africa, South Africa is the largest steel producer on the continent, with companies like ArcelorMittal South Africa supplying hot-rolled and galvanized products. Morocco, with its growing industrial base and proximity to European markets, is also developing capacity for solar racking components. However, African suppliers face logistical challenges, including longer shipping times and port inefficiencies.

Supplier capabilities vary widely. Some offer complete, pre-engineered mounting kits with all hardware, while others supply raw materials or semi-finished components. US EPC contractors should evaluate suppliers based on: - Quality control: ISO 9001 certification is common, but ASTM compliance must be verified. - Production capacity: Can the supplier handle large orders (e.g., 500+ metric tons)? - Lead times: Typical lead times from Latin America range from 4–8 weeks, while Africa may require 8–12 weeks.

US Buyer Types — Who Buys This and How They Procure

US EPC contractors are the primary buyers of mounting structures for large-scale solar projects. These firms, such as SOLV Energy, Mortenson, and McCarthy Building Companies, procure through competitive bidding processes. They issue requests for quotations (RFQs) specifying quantities, delivery dates, and technical requirements. Procurement teams often pre-qualify suppliers based on: - Financial stability: Demonstrated ability to finance production and meet bonding requirements. - Past performance: References from similar projects. - Compliance: Adherence to US safety and environmental regulations.

Other buyer segments include: - Distributors: Companies like Univergy Solar and Nextracker distribute mounting systems to EPCs and installers. - Project developers: Firms that develop solar farms and contract EPC services, sometimes procuring directly. - Utility companies: For owned-generation projects, utilities may buy mounting structures through EPC partners.

Specifications are often tailored to project-specific engineering designs. EPC contractors rely on structural engineers to validate supplier components, so detailed drawings and load calculations are required. Buyers also value suppliers who offer engineering support and warranty terms (typically 10–25 years).

Certifications and Import Requirements

Importing solar mounting structures into the US requires compliance with several regulations:

• Section 232 tariffs: Steel imports are subject to a 25% tariff, though certain countries (e.g., Mexico, Canada) are exempt under USMCA. Latin American suppliers not covered by free trade agreements must factor in this cost.
• ASTM standards: Components must meet ASTM specifications for material properties and coating.
• ISO 9001: Quality management certification is often a prerequisite for US buyers.
• UL 2703: While primarily for racking and mounting systems, UL certification is not mandatory but is widely required by specifiers.
• Buy America provisions: For federally funded projects, mounting structures must be manufactured in the US, limiting import opportunities. However, private projects have no such restriction.

Customs clearance requires proper documentation, including bills of lading, packing lists, certificates of origin, and material test reports (MTRs). Importers must also comply with the US Department of Commerce’s antidumping and countervailing duty orders on steel products from certain countries.

Pricing and Lead Time Context

Pricing for solar mounting structures is primarily driven by steel and aluminum commodity prices. As of early 2025, hot-rolled coil steel prices are around $800 per metric ton, while galvanized steel adds a premium of 10–15%. [3] Aluminum prices hover near $2,200 per metric ton. [4] Fabricated mounting structures typically cost $0.10–$0.20 per watt for fixed-tilt systems and $0.15–$0.30 per watt for trackers, depending on complexity and volume.

Lead times from Latin American suppliers average 6–10 weeks from order to delivery at a US port, including fabrication and shipping. African suppliers may require 10–14 weeks due to longer transit times and potential port delays. Buyers should plan for seasonal demand spikes, as solar installations often peak in Q3 and Q4 to meet tax credit deadlines.

How Coppermont Connects Suppliers to Buyers

Coppermont specializes in facilitating trade between Latin American and African suppliers and US buyers. For suppliers of solar mounting structures, we offer: - Market intelligence: Insights into US buyer preferences, pricing trends, and regulatory changes. - Qualification support: Help in achieving ASTM certifications and meeting US standards. - Logistics coordination: Connections to freight forwarders and customs brokers experienced in steel imports.

For US EPC contractors, we provide: - Supplier vetting: Pre-screened manufacturers with verified capacity and quality records. - Sample coordination: Arrangement of product samples for testing and approval. - Contract negotiation: Assistance in structuring agreements that protect both parties.

Whether you are a supplier looking to expand into the US market or an EPC contractor seeking reliable sourcing, Coppermont can help bridge the gap. Contact us today to discuss your needs.

For Suppliers: Ready to export to the US? Get in touch with our team to learn how we can support your market entry.

For Buyers: Looking for qualified mounting structure suppliers? Let us connect you with vetted partners in Latin America and Africa.