Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis technology has become one of the mainstream methods due to its high efficiency, large current density, wide temperature adaptability, and fast response speed. Although most research focuses on PEM electrolyzer demonstration, development of new catalysts, or improvements in proton exchange membranes, system and feedwater optimization remain critical challenges. Therefore, this study emphasizes the impact of water quality parameters—including pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and conductivity—on the energy consumption of PEM electrolyzers to optimize hydrogen production. These parameters are often interrelated and influence electrolysis performance.

The working principle of a PEM electrolyzer involves the electrochemical decomposition of water into hydrogen and oxygen at the electrodes. Since water is the primary reaction medium, its quality directly affects electrolysis efficiency and energy consumption. Key water quality factors include pH, TDS, and conductivity. For example, pH can alter the oxygen reduction reaction potential, thereby affecting energy consumption, but extreme pH levels may cause membrane degradation. Low conductivity may help reduce energy consumption, but excessively high conductivity can damage the membrane. TDS is related to water conductivity and may cause scaling issues. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) recommends using Type I deionized water (total organic carbon <50 ppb, resistivity >1 MΩ·cm, sodium and chlorine <5 µg/L). However, actual water sources often contain impurities, increasing purification costs. Studies show that no hydrogen is produced when TDS is zero, while high TDS levels (0–2000 ppm) help increase production.

​​1. Impact of pH on Gas Production and Energy Consumption​​

The efficiency of PEM water electrolysis for hydrogen production (including gas production and energy consumption) is closely related to the pH of the electrolyte. The core requirement is that the pH must remain within the "optimal range" designed for the electrolysis system. Deviation from this range (too acidic or too alkaline) will significantly reduce system performance. Overly acidic or alkaline environments can shift catalysts away from their optimal working conditions, reduce their chemical activity, or even cause structural damage, leading to slower hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) rates. Additionally, extreme pH conditions can affect the hydration state and chemical stability of the proton exchange membrane (PEM), hindering efficient H⁺ transport and causing "supply interruptions" of reactants. An overly acidic environment may corrode electrodes and lead to deposits covering active sites, while an overly alkaline environment may cause impurity precipitation, not only increasing wasted energy consumption but also further inhibiting gas generation, resulting in reduced gas production.

​​2. Impact of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) on Gas Production and Energy Consumption​​

TDS refers to the total concentration of inorganic and organic substances dissolved in water and is a key indicator for assessing water quality. Gas production increases with higher TDS concentrations, as high TDS may act as a catalyst to promote hydrogen formation. Conversely, low TDS levels result in limited gas production, and no hydrogen is produced when TDS is zero.

TDS significantly impacts energy consumption. High TDS increases water conductivity but raises the voltage of the electrolyzer, leading to higher energy consumption. Simultaneously, TDS may cause scaling on electrodes or membranes, reducing efficiency. To mitigate these effects, water treatment technologies (such as reverse osmosis or deionization) are recommended to reduce TDS and optimize energy consumption.

​​3. Impact of Conductivity on Gas Production​​

Conductivity is another important parameter reflecting the ion concentration in water. High conductivity can reduce the overpotential of the anode oxygen reduction reaction (OER), decreasing energy demand. However, excessively high conductivity increases the risk of membrane deterioration and pumping energy consumption.

​​4. Impact of Different Water Qualities on Energy Consumption​​

A comparison of the effects of seawater, well water, and deionized water on PEM electrolyzers:

• ​​Seawater​​: High dissolved salts and minerals increase conductivity but also raise resistance, requiring higher voltage and leading to increased energy consumption.

• ​​Well water​​: Fewer dissolved substances generally result in lower energy consumption than seawater, but the uncertainty in mineral composition poses challenges.

• ​​Deionized water​​: Low conductivity reduces resistance and improves energy efficiency, but the lack of necessary ions requires cautious use based on system design.

​​5. Importance of Water Quality Management​​

PEM water electrolysis often focuses on the electrolyzer itself, yet auxiliary systems (BOP), particularly feedwater management, are equally critical. Optimizing water quality parameters (pH, TDS, conductivity) not only enhances efficiency and gas production but also extends equipment lifespan. Although the BOP for PEM systems is simpler than that of alkaline systems, controlling pure water quality remains a key factor in achieving efficient and stable operation.

Kinsend thanks many Singaporean EPC photovoltaic companies for their support, Kinsend with its high-quality solar mounting structure and professional design solutions, we provide the best security guarantee for all cooperative projects.

Advantages of Singapore's Rooftop Solar PV

Geographical and Climatic Advantages

Abundant Sunlight: As a tropical country near the equator, Singapore enjoys stable sunshine year-round, with an average daily peak sunlight hours of 4-4.5 hours, providing excellent natural conditions for solar power generation.

Core Strategy to Address Land Scarcity

Utilizing Idle Space: With limited land area and no possibility for large-scale ground-mounted solar power plants, leveraging the rooftop space of tens of thousands of public housing (HDB) blocks, industrial buildings, commercial complexes, and private residences is the optimal solution to "turn waste into treasure." This perfectly aligns with Singapore’s "vertical city" development concept.

Economic and Cost Benefits

Reducing Energy Costs: For HDB town councils and businesses, installing solar PV systems significantly lowers electricity costs for public areas (e.g., elevators, lighting, water pumps) or operational expenses. Through the "install-own-operate" model, town councils can enjoy cheaper electricity without upfront investment.

Hedging Against Electricity Price Volatility: Solar power provides a stable energy source, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and mitigating the risks associated with fluctuations in international energy prices.

Environmental Benefits and Sustainable Development

Reducing Carbon Footprint: Solar PV is a clean energy source that supports Singapore’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Enhancing Urban Resilience: Distributed rooftop solar PV systems contribute to a more decentralized and resilient energy network, reducing over-reliance on centralized power supply.

Green Image: For businesses, using green energy is a key way to fulfill corporate social responsibility (CSR) and meet environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, enhancing brand image and international competitiveness.

Strong Government Support and Planning

Policy-Driven: Through the SolarNova program, the government continuously aggregates public sector demand and conducts large-scale tenders, providing a stable and predictable market for the solar industry, attracting investment, and reducing costs.

Clear Targets: The government has set a target to deploy at least 2 gigawatts (GWp) of solar capacity by 2030, with rooftop solar PV as the absolute mainstay. This provides a clear direction for the industry.

For any design requirements of photovoltaic mounting projects, please feel free to contact us  : info@kinsend.com

When designing a reliable and cost-effective solar PV system, the choice of mounting structure material plays a crucial role. Two of the most common materials used are aluminum and steel—but which one is better?

This article compares the two from key aspects including durability, weight, corrosion resistance, cost, and application scenarios.

1. Durability and Structural Strength

Steel is generally stronger and better suited for large-scale ground-mounted systems where high wind or snow loads are a concern.

Aluminum, while lighter, still offers adequate strength for rooftop and carport applications, especially with proper design.

Verdict: Steel wins in strength, especially for utility-scale and harsh environments.

2. Weight and Ease of Installation

Aluminum is significantly lighter than steel, making it easier and faster to transport and install—especially on rooftops.

Less weight means less stress on the roof and often lower labor costs.

Verdict: Aluminum offers clear advantages in weight-sensitive installations.

3. Corrosion Resistance

Aluminum naturally resists corrosion without the need for additional coating.

Steel requires galvanization or special coatings (e.g., hot-dip galvanized or Zn-Al-Mg) to withstand corrosion, especially in coastal or humid environments.

Verdict: Aluminum is better suited for corrosive environments such as coastal areas and high humidity zones.

4. Cost

Steel is generally more cost-effective in terms of raw material price.

However, aluminum can reduce total costs by lowering transportation and installation time.

Verdict: Steel may win on material price, but aluminum can reduce overall project cost in the right scenario.

5. Application Suitability

In terms of application suitability, aluminum is recommended for rooftop systems and coastal areas due to its lightweight and corrosion resistance.

For large utility-scale farms, steel is typically preferred thanks to its superior strength.

Carports can use either material depending on the specific design requirements.

In regions with heavy snow or wind loads, steel is generally the better choice.

Conclusion

Both aluminum and steel have their own advantages depending on project type and site conditions.

Aluminum is ideal for lightweight, corrosion-resistant rooftop and residential systems, while steel is often the preferred choice for cost-sensitive, large-scale installations requiring higher structural strength.

If you're looking for a reliable solar mounting solution provider, UISOLAR offers both aluminum and steel systems that are certified, customizable, and engineered for long-term durability.

With over 15 years of experience and projects in more than 100 countries, UISOLAR is committed to helping you find the right structure for every solar project—from residential rooftops to utility-scale solar farms.

As the first full moon of the lunar year rises, we celebrate the Lantern Festival, a cherished tradition that marks the end of the Chinese New Year festivities. At UIsolar, we embrace this time of joy, reflection, and togetherness, and we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a Lantern Festival filled with happiness, prosperity, and bright beginnings.

The Lantern Festival, also known as Yuanxiao Festival, is a time-honored celebration of unity and hope. Families gather to enjoy sweet yuanxiao (glutinous rice balls), admire the glow of lanterns, and solve riddles written on them. These traditions remind us of the importance of connection, creativity, and looking forward to a brighter future.

At UISOLAR, we are inspired by the spirit of the Lantern Festival. Just as lanterns light up the night sky, we strive to illuminate new possibilities for our customers and partners  . This festival is a reminder of the strength we find in unity and the joy we create when we come together.

Join Us in Celebrating the Lantern Festival!

As we celebrate the Lantern Festival, we are reminded of the power of light to guide us forward. At UISOLAR, we are committed to being a beacon of innovation, collaboration, and excellence for our community. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and we look forward to achieving new heights together in the year ahead.

Wishing you a Lantern Festival filled with warmth, joy, and endless possibilities!

The term "clamping hook" in the context of solar installations almost always refers to a key component in the racking system used for mounting solar panels, specifically for standing seam metal roofs.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what it is, how it works, and why it's important.

1. What is a Clamping Hook?

A clamping hook is a specialized mounting bracket designed to attach solar panel railings to a standing seam metal roof without penetrating the roof membrane.

Clamping: It uses a set of bolts to mechanically clamp onto the raised vertical seam of the roof.

Hook: The top part of the device is shaped like a hook or a cleat that fits over and grabs the seam.

This creates a incredibly strong, durable, and watertight connection point for the solar array.

2. How Does It Work?

The process involves a few key steps:

Positioning: The clamp is placed over the top of the standing seam.

Fastening: Bolts on the side(s) of the clamp are tightened. This forces the clamp's jaws to grip the sides of the seam tightly.

Attaching the Rail: The solar mounting rail is then secured into the channel or onto the base of the installed clamp, often with another bolt.

Mounting the Panel: Finally, the solar panels are attached to the rails with standard panel clamps.

This entire system is mechanical and requires no drilling, welding, or adhesives on the roof seam itself.

3. Key Advantages and Benefits

No Penetration: This is the biggest advantage. It preserves the integrity of the roof and its warranty, as there are no holes that could potentially leak.

Extreme Wind Resistance: Properly installed clamping hooks have very high pull-out strength and are rated to withstand even hurricane-force winds. The connection actually gets stronger as wind tries to lift the panel (upward force tightens the clamp further on the seam).

Speed of Installation: Installation is typically faster than penetrative methods because there's no need to measure, drill, seal, and bolt through the roof deck.

Versatility: Many clamp designs are adjustable to fit a wide range of standing seam profiles (widths and heights), making them compatible with many different roof brands.

Roof Warranty Friendly: Many roofing manufacturers approve the use of specific clamp systems, which can make the solar installation process smoother.

As global demand for renewable energy continues to grow, floating solar (also known as floating photovoltaic or FPV) is emerging as one of the most innovative solutions in the solar industry. By installing photovoltaic modules on floating platforms over water surfaces, FPV systems not only generate clean energy but also make efficient use of underutilized water resources. Let’s take a closer look at the types of floating solar systems and their typical application scenarios.

1. Types of Floating Solar Systems

(1) Pure Floating PV System

This is the most common form of FPV, where solar panels are mounted on buoyant floating structures directly on the water’s surface.

Advantages: Simple structure, cost-effective, fast installation.

Limitations: Limited flexibility in extreme weather or large wave conditions.

Applications: Small- to medium-scale projects on calm reservoirs, ponds, or lakes.

(2) Anchored Floating PV System

In these systems, floating arrays are anchored or moored to the waterbed to ensure stability.

Advantages: Enhanced resistance to wind, currents, and waves; safer in long-term operation.

Limitations: Higher installation cost due to anchoring systems.

Applications: Large reservoirs, hydropower dams, or coastal areas with mild water movement.

(3) Hybrid Floating PV System

Hybrid systems combine floating solar with other technologies such as hydropower, fisheries, or storage.

Advantages: Higher land-use efficiency and multiple revenue streams.

Examples: FPV on hydropower dams (sharing transmission lines), fish farming beneath solar arrays, or floating solar plus battery storage.

2. Application Scenarios

Reservoirs and Hydropower Dams

Floating solar on reservoirs and hydropower stations is one of the most promising applications. It reduces water evaporation, uses existing grid connections, and improves overall energy efficiency by complementing hydropower generation.

Industrial and Agricultural Ponds

FPV systems on irrigation ponds, water treatment ponds, or aquaculture farms can provide dual benefits—clean energy generation and reduced water temperature fluctuations, which can benefit fish farming.

Urban Water Bodies

Floating solar can be installed on lakes, quarry lakes, or even retention ponds near cities. These projects provide renewable electricity for local communities without competing for valuable land resources.

Coastal and Offshore Areas (Emerging)

Although still in early development, offshore floating solar holds huge potential. By combining with offshore wind farms, floating solar can share infrastructure and create hybrid renewable energy hubs.

3. Benefits of Floating Solar

Efficient Land Use: No need to occupy farmland or urban land.

Improved Efficiency: Water cooling effect increases solar module efficiency by 5–15%.

Environmental Impact: Reduces algae growth and evaporation on water bodies.

Scalability: Suitable for both small community projects and large-scale utility plants.

4. Conclusion

Floating solar is no longer just a niche technology; it is becoming a vital part of the global renewable energy mix. From reservoirs and dams to offshore waters, FPV opens new frontiers for solar deployment while addressing land constraints. With advancing technology and decreasing costs, floating solar will play a key role in achieving a sustainable, low-carbon future.

From 2021 to 2022, the epidemic continued to impact the photovoltaic supply chain, resulting in a high price level for photovoltaic modules due to insufficient silicon supply, and the installed demand was deferred until 2023. With the large-scale release of new capacity and output of silicon materials, prices at all links of the industrial chain have returned to normal levels. It is estimated that the global photovoltaic installation demand will significantly increase in 2023, with the new installed demand reaching 351 GW, an annual increase of 53.4%. However, attention still needs to be paid to various issues such as the slowdown in global economic growth and high inflation, which may lead to lower installed demand than expected.

In 2023, the demand for photovoltaic installation will be ranked from high to low in Asia Pacific, Europe, the Americas, and Middle East Africa. The new installed capacity demand in the Asia Pacific region in 2023 is estimated to be 202.5GW, with an annual increase of 55.4%. Among them, markets such as China, Malaysia, and the Philippines have seen rapid growth in installed capacity driven by policies, with the annual increase in installed capacity in these regions reaching over 40%; The installed growth in mature markets such as Japan, Australia, and South Korea tends to be stable.

In Europe, it is estimated that the photovoltaic installed capacity in 2023 will be about 68.6GW, with an annual increase of 39.7%. The main installed demand will come from Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain. Due to the persistently high electricity prices, various countries have provided policy support such as subsidies or tax rebates for photovoltaic products, and the price of photovoltaic modules has fallen, resulting in a growth in the installed capacity of photovoltaic products for European users in 2023. In addition, as the European Union eases the licensing and approval time for photovoltaic installation, and the price of photovoltaic modules decreases, it is expected that the number of ground power station projects in Europe will return to growth from 2023 to 2024.

In the Americas, it is estimated that the new photovoltaic installed capacity will increase by about 64.6GW in 2023, with an annual increase of 65.2%. The installed demand is highly concentrated in the United States, Brazil, Chile, and other places; Colombia and Canada will also usher in the peak period of grid connection in 2023. Previously, due to the impact of the United States UFLPA Act and the implementation of anti circumvention investigations on photovoltaic capacity in Southeast Asia, resulting in delays in the transportation of photovoltaic modules, the installation of ground power plants that are relatively sensitive to costs has slowed down, and this situation will be eased in 2023; Under the stimulus of the IRA Act, there are sufficient photovoltaic reserve projects in the United States, and the installed demand is expected to double. Brazil's distributed policy will continue to promote the vigorous development of distributed projects, while centralized projects are expected to see rapid growth again when the Brazilian government further opens up.

In the Middle East and Africa, the photovoltaic market has shown steady growth, with an estimated new installed capacity of 14.9GW, an annual increase of about 49.5%. The installed capacity increment in the Middle East and Africa region is highly dependent on bidding projects. Large photovoltaic ground power station projects dominate the market demand, with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and Israel as the main incremental regions. The region is rich in lighting resources. Currently, the capacity of bidding projects to be built or under construction has exceeded 9GW. In addition to favorable policies, there is huge development space. It is expected that bidding projects will continue to grow in the future.

As we all know,  Ballast Mounting for Flat roof usually customized for different panel tilt angeles.

Different areas, the sun condition will be different, so does the panel tilt angels, then it will be a big problem to arrange the  stock.

Nowadays, UISOLAR come out  a Ballast Mounting with the adjustable tilt angles.  10-35 degrees can be adjustable according you need. The clear scale will make you and your customer easy to get the correct tilt angles , to help the panel get the most sunshine.

And it will be easier to keep in stock.

Details show as below :

For  Solar Ground Mounting System, normally have three types of foundation can be chose.

• Concrete Foundation

The concrete foundation adopts the reinforced expanded foundation, the construction method is simple, the geological adaptability is strong, and the foundation embedding depth can be relatively shallow.

• Ground Screw Foundation

The construction speed is fast, there is no need for site leveling, no earthwork excavation, maximum protection of the vegetation in the field, and the site is easy to restore the original appearance, it is convenient to adjust the upper bracket, and the height of the bracket can be adjusted according to the terrain. The impact on the environment is small, less labor is required, and the spiral pile can be used again.

• Pile Foundation

Driving the steel pile into the soil with a pile driver does not need to dig the ground, which is more environmentally friendly; it is not subject to seasonal temperature and other restrictions; the construction is fast and convenient, the construction period is greatly shortened, and it is convenient for migration and recycling; the foundation is easy to adjust the height during the pile driving process.

Which basic method to use will depend on the conditions of the project.

As usually, Grounding PV modules is necessary and required  for the solar power ystem.

Are you always worried about your solar panels for  thunderstorm whether?

The UISOLAR Grounding parts include special washers ( diffenert washers for grounding clip, grounding lug and bounding jumper)  with sharp ridges on them that penetrate through the non-conductive coatings of the aluminum module frames and mounting racks. The mounts themselves are then grounded so the entire assembly is grounded.

Customized Grounding components (Both ground washers, groundling lug and Bounding jumper )  are avaiable here.

Brief introduction to UISOLAR Grounding System as below :

Grounding washer /clip

Ground lug/ Earthing lug

Bounding Jumper