Wind load is a critical challenge for both PV modules and trackers – with real consequences for project bankability. In this webinar we will examine how a system-level approach to load testing can protect panels from failure, discuss wind load testing methods that go beyond static standards, and hear how tracker design handles extreme wind events.
Wind load is a big issue for solar installations: panels can and do bend and fly away. Does the industry have the right tools to measure how resilient a PV plant really is to ensure the installation is built to withstand the elements?
In this pv magazine Webinar, experts from solar tracker and racking solutions manufacturer Arctech and independent testing provider CPP Wind will discuss current methodologies for PV plant wind load testing, why these might fall short, and offer solutions for PV project developers and EPCs, utility-scale solar investors, and asset owners.
Join to learn hear how wind load affects structural design, component selection and system reliability; what the challenges of wind load mean for project bankability and a plant’s lifecycle value; and how advanced tracker design can handle extreme wind events while maintaining yield.
pv magazine Webinar content
• Module failures on site
• Stow strategy, panel structure and purlin design
• Quality reduction
• Calculating wind load correctly
• Stow tilt
• Testing standard suitabiltiy
• Arctech tracker overview
• Q&A
What you will learn
• How to turn previously undevelopable terrain into high yield solar assets
• Understand the full impact of tracker design on lifecycle costs (CapEx+ OpEx)
• How to take a system approach to tracker, frame and panel testing
• Standards for calculating panel and tracker load
• How Arctech approaches the problem
Questions can be submitted beforehand in the comments window when registering or in the chat during the live webinar.
The webinar will be moderated by Matthew Lynas, editor at pv magazine.
Registration for this webinar is free of charge.
When?
Thursday, May 7, 2026 · 10:00
Berlin
Duration: 1 hour
Price
Free
Language
English
Who can attend
Everyone
Dial-in available? (listen only)
Yes.
Dial-in Number
Please register for this event to view the dial-in info.
Hosted By pv magazine Events
Since 2015, pv magazine Webinars are a neutral platform where to have trusted conversations and share knowledge. We work with our partners to deliver our participants an informative and engaging webinar experience. Our webinars are thematically oriented and do not serve the purpose of sales.
Registration for pv magazine Webinars is free of charge. We look forward to your participation and critical feedback! Please send your questions and proposals to webinar@pv-magazine.com.
John is the Vice General Manager of the R&D Center, where he leads the tracker structure innovation and provides global technical support. He conducts competitor analysis, product development, wind tunnel testing, product-to-project studies, and...
Parsa is an Associate Principal at CPP’s Sydney office, leading the firm’s solar capabilities across Australia and the region. With extensive experience in wind tunnel testing for major projects across Australia, Asia and Europe, and expertise in...
Matthew Lynas joined pv magazine as features editor in 2023. An experienced business-to-business journalist, Matthew is responsible for features in our monthly global print title. Previously, he served as editor of a leading UK retail magazine,...