In solar power plant construction, the mounting system serves as the “skeleton” supporting solar panels, with its selection directly impacting plant reliability, cost, and power generation efficiency. In recent years, cable structures have emerged as an innovative solution, demonstrating unique characteristics compared to traditional fixed mounting systems and gaining increasing popularity in projects.
The core of cable structures lies in utilizing high-strength steel cables as primary load-bearing components. Through pre-tensioning technology, they form stable spatial frameworks that replace conventional rigid metal supports. This design significantly reduces steel consumption and material costs while simplifying installation processes. Traditional fixed supports typically require extensive bolted connections and on-site welding. In contrast, cable structures employ modular designs with lightweight components, enabling rapid installation. This makes them particularly suitable for projects with complex terrain or large-scale power stations, significantly shortening construction timelines.
Cable structures demonstrate exceptional adaptability in challenging environments. Traditional fixed supports demand high foundation flatness, leading to substantially increased earthwork and foundation construction costs in sites with significant topographical variations or poor geological conditions. Cable structures, relying on flexible tensioning systems, adapt more easily to uneven ground, reducing foundation treatment requirements. They can even enable “shallow foundations” or “micro-foundations,” lowering overall project costs.
Wind resistance is a critical indicator for assessing support system reliability. Traditional fixed supports, being rigid structures, are prone to localized stress concentration under strong winds, leading to deformation or damage. Cable structures, however, distribute wind loads through their flexible design. They utilize the ductility of tension cables to absorb dynamic wind energy and reduce structural vibration, thereby enhancing the system’s wind resistance and stability. This advantage is particularly pronounced in regions prone to frequent typhoons.
From a long-term operational and environmental perspective, cable structures are also more appealing. Reduced material usage directly lowers carbon emissions during production and transportation, aligning with the sustainable development principles of green energy projects. Additionally, the streamlined design of cable structures minimizes shading, promoting airflow beneath the modules. This helps lower operating temperatures and boosts power generation efficiency.
Of course, cable structures aren’t suitable for every scenario. For small-scale distributed projects or sites with ideal ground conditions, traditional fixed mounts remain competitive due to their mature technology and flexible initial selection options. However, in large-scale ground-mounted power plants, projects with complex terrain, and scenarios prioritizing lower costs and faster deployment, the comprehensive advantages of cable structures are increasingly evident.
Through innovative design, cable structures achieve improvements in material usage, cost efficiency, and installation speed while enhancing environmental adaptability and wind resistance. They represent a major trend in the evolution of solar mounting systems toward lightweight and high-efficiency solutions. As the technology continues to mature, cable structures will become a significant force driving down solar power costs and increasing its adoption.
