Exploring Electrical Bonding in PV Structural Joints

This report investigates the performance of structural-bonded joints in solar photovoltaic (PV) mounting systems, where bolted connections provide both structural load transfer and electrical bonding. It reviews the physical mechanisms affecting joint resistance, examines the impacts of loosening, corrosion, and bonding device selection, and evaluates current industry testing standards. The report offers design and maintenance recommendations and identifies research and standards-development needs to improve long-term electrical bonding reliability in PV installations.