The Most Competitive Solar Mounting Structure on the Market engineered by SUNOTEC Mounting Systems and manufactured by SUNOTEC Steel

SUNOTEC Group Delivers Unmatched Expertise and Quality with SUNOTEC Mounting Systems and SUNOTEC Steel

[Sofia, Bulgaria, November 2024] SUNOTEC Group, a leader in integrated solar energy solutions, is redefining industry standards with its unmatched service and product portfolio, which includes the in-house engineered and produced mounting structure provided by SUNOTEC Mounting Systems and SUNOTEC Steel.

The establishment of these divisions reflects SUNOTEC’s commitment to providing the most advanced solar mounting structure on the market, solidified by a leadership team renowned for their expertise and standing in the industry. SUNOTEC’s visionary management drives the Group forward, with a focus on delivering an all-encompassing, future-proof service package—from initial on-site extraction tests to the handover of fully installed solar installations. This approach exemplifies SUNOTEC's dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards across all stages of project development.

A Powerhouse Leadership Team Driving SUNOTEC Mounting Systems and SUNOTEC Steel

SUNOTEC Mounting Systems and SUNOTEC Steel are led by a highly experienced team. Kaloyan Velichkov, CEO and Founder of the SUNOTEC Group, along with his co-CEO Bernhard Suchland, provide the strategic direction for both divisions.

“We are exceptionally proud of the team responsible for establishing our mounting structure as the benchmark for quality and reliability throughout Europe and Africa,” states Bernhard Suchland, CEO of SUNOTEC.

The new team members include:

• Joachim Wagner, Managing Director of SUNOTEC Mounting Systems, who brings over 16 years of experience in solar mounting technology, sales, and management.
• Michael Obermaier, Managing Director of SUNOTEC Steel, known for his expertise in steel manufacturing and supply chain optimisation.
• Tilman Elsner, CTO SUNOTEC Mounting Systems, a structural engineer who brings in over two decades of experience in management and structural optimisation of PV-Systems.
• Klaus Plecher, Head of Electrical Engineering, with over 18 years of experience in solar engineering and utility-scale solar power plant design.
• Gabriel Dechant, Head of R&D, who combines over 13 years of on-site construction and metalworking experience with his expertise in mechanical engineering to develop innovative, holistic solutions.

Together, they will ensure the seamless integration of tracker manufacturing into SUNOTEC's existing processes, setting new benchmarks for efficiency.

SUNOTEC Mounting Systems: Precision Engineering for Superior Performance

SUNOTEC Mounting Systems was established to ensure full control over the engineering, supply, and sales of the mounting structures. The foundation of the fixed tilt and tracker systems is built on the intellectual property (IP) from Habdank, which SUNOTEC acquired in 2022. The company pioneered utility-scale mounting structures in Germany with an installed capacity of 1.8 GWp.

The new division leverages extensive industry experience to deliver innovative and reliable mounting solutions and the technical prowess to ensure that the systems meet the highest standards of efficiency and durability. SUNOTEC's technical product support extends to planning the most efficient execution of projects, including conducting technical due diligence processes on site.

Key Advantages of SUNOTEC’s Fixed Tilt Mounting Structure

SUNOTEC’s mounting systems stand out in the market due to several key features:

• Enhanced Bifacial Performance: Due to minimal rear shading from the mounting structure, the bifacial effect is significantly higher compared to other systems.
• Unmatched Reliability: The unique direct screw connection with the modules makes the mounting of a module incorrectly virtually impossible. It also ensures that each module can easily withstand extreme weather conditions.
• Superior Quality Materials: Utilisation of high-grade steel (up to S550GD) and zinc-magnesium coating guarantees long-lasting durability and extended service life.
• Safety-First Design: All screw connections can be safely tightened from below the PV modules, eliminating the need for dangerous climbing during assembly.
• Efficient Installation: Reduced component count and optimised assembly procedures dramatically cut installation time, resulting in low man hours per MWp.

SUNOTEC Steel: In-House Manufacturing for Premium Quality

To complement the engineering capabilities, SUNOTEC Steel is responsible for the production of the in-house mounting structures. The state-of-the-art facility near Sofia, Bulgaria has been operational since October 2023, allowing for the production of high volumes of fixed tilt mounting structures with speed and reliability. This ensures a steady supply to meet the demands of the European market.

“Our goal is to meet and exceed all current standards and achieve Net Zero Carbon in our production by 2026. Additionally, we aim to be more flexible in transport, enabling us to ship directly to sites by train, ship, and truck,” says Michael Obermaier, Managing Director of SUNOTEC Steel.

Significant Developments Underway: The SUNOTEC Tracker System

Building on the success of SUNOTEC’s fixed tilt system and responding to the rising demand for advanced tracking solutions in large-scale PV projects, SUNOTEC is proud to announce the development of the SUNOTEC Tracker System which is set to be introduced to the market in 2025.

Key Features of the SUNOTEC Tracker System:

• Quick and Easy Installation: Designed for rapid deployment, minimising labour costs and project timelines.
• Sound and Robust Structural Design: Engineered to withstand dynamic effects and to avoid natural frequency issues, ensuring long-term durability.
• Advanced Maintenance: Features that allow for easy replacement of individual components without the need to disassemble entire units.
• Optimised Design for Bifacial Modules: Maximises the efficiency of bifacial solar modules, enhancing overall energy yield.
• Advanced SCADA and Monitoring System: Provides real-time data and analytics, safeguarding customer investments and maximising profits.

Integrated Solutions with a Commitment to Excellence

SUNOTEC is dedicated to providing expertly integrated solar solutions, where international expertise meets a steadfast commitment to resource efficiency and business reliability. The complete in-house control of engineering, production, and installation ensures that every solution is delivered with the highest standards of quality and precision. Through the work of SUNOTECs in-house geologist, Silke Köppen, and her site assessments prior to the start of the engineering process, it is possible to calculate the minimum amount of required steel. This approach allows for maximum resource efficiency and economic viability without increasing technical risks. SUNOTEC also offers comprehensive support in technical preparation, delivery, and installation, providing an integrated solution from start to finish.

SUNOTECs approach is further reinforced by their adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, as well as their compliance with rigorous health, safety, and environmental standards, including ISO 14001:2015 for Environmental Management, ISO 45001:2018 for Occupational Health and Safety, and ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management. This comprehensive certification framework guarantees that their partners receive nothing less than excellence in every project.

About SUNOTEC

SUNOTEC positions itself as an integrated solution provider, offering turnkey solar solutions tailored to our customers' unique requirements. Their service and product portfolio, large in-house workforce and investment capabilities enables them to be at the forefront of the development, construction, and maintenance of large-scale utility solar PV plants in Europe and Africa. Based in Sofia (Bulgaria) and Munich (Germany), the company currently employs over 2,000 people. With more than 580 solar power plants and over 8.2 GWp capacity built, SUNOTEC offers international expertise, and a lived commitment to resource efficiency and business reliability to all our partners.

PRESS CONTACT

Patricia Schuler
Press Representative SUNOTEC
E-mail: press@sunotec-group.com