Schneider Structural Engineers

“Schneider Structural Engineers consistently delivers professional results in extraordinarily short
timeframes. They are extremely personable, flexible and accessible. The team goes out of its way
to solve issues and ensure customer satisfaction on every occasion.”
– Ken Quast, SOLON Corporation

Solar Industry Structural Engineering

Structural Engineer:
Schneider Structural Engineers

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and a list of project hightlights
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Schneider Structural Engineers is a solar industry leader. Since 2002 our structural engineers have developed innovative and cost-effective solutions for solar installations in 27 states, including new and retrofitted structures as well as solar farms. We have provided structural engineering for the racking that supports more than 400 photovoltaic power system projects. This includes ground-mounted systems, roof-mounted systems, ballasted systems and tracking systems. Our designs utilize custom aluminum extrusions, which are light-weight and corrosion resistant. Over the years, we have developed the resources to ensure that the PV industry uses safe, cost-effective racking systems that withstand wind, sun, snow and seismic forces. On large-scale projects, we have saved clients millions of dollars.

Our Engineering Supports the Solar Industry

  • Schneider Structural Engineers is the structural engineering firm for Sempra Generation's Mesquite Solar 1 west of Phoenix, with more than 800,000 multicrystalline solar panels. The initial phase will produce 150 megawatts of renewable electricity with plans to expand up to 600,000 megawatts — which would make this the largest solar project in the world.
  • We are the sole U.S. structural engineering firm for Schletter, a global pioneer in the solar industry and the largest provider for solar mounting systems in Europe. In 2008 Schletter opened its U.S. facility in Tucson.
  • Our team provides structural engineering for adjustable-tilt ground-mounted systems for solar farms. Our depth of understanding from working with PV installers has led to creative solutions that saved clients millions on projects that cover thousands of acres or square miles.
  • Schneider Structural Engineers has provided structural engineering for the racking that supports more than 400 photovoltaic power system projects throughout the United States, including ground-mounted systems, roof-mounted systems, ballasted systems and tracking systems.
  • We partner in research and development, assisting in wind tunnel tests to determine more exact design loads. This crucial step can help determine the amount of structure needed and contribute to lower costs for racking systems.
  • Our structural engineers advise businesses that want to install photovoltaic power systems to reduce energy costs and take advantage of numerous tax incentives. We evaluate whether existing roof framing systems can support added photovoltaic rack systems or what adaptations are needed.
  • We have developed innovative technologies, including clamping devices and ballasted systems to stabilize solar panels placed on existing roof systems. We have also designed custom aluminum extrusions, which are lightweight and corrosion resistant.
  • Our experienced team works with regulatory agencies in many states and with the International Code Council, where our systems are pre-engineered and pre-approved.

“We needed a flexible partner to work with us on structural engineering.
Ron and his team have shown a profound understanding of the very specific
needs for structural analysis of our solar mounting systems.”

— Wolfgang Fritz, Schletter