Solar panel mounting system and method

Abstract

A solar panel mounting system for forming a solar array includes longitudinal support rails mounted to a support structure such as a roof. A first solar panel disposed on the rails has a peripheral frame including a locking frame member with deformable clamping portion configured for slideably receiving a peripheral frame portion of an adjacent second solar panel. A pair of captive T-bolt sets passing through the clamping portion include T-bolts having locking heads and nuts frictionally engaged with the T-bolts to rotate the T-bolts. The heads are each inserted and rotationally locked into fastening channels of respective support rails. The second solar panel is inserted into the first panel clamping portion and the nuts are fully tightened producing a clamping action which locks the first and second panels together. Power/control cables may be routed inside covered cable compartments on rears of the panels for protection against rodent damage.