Kyocera Solar has announced a strategic alliance with IronRidge to supply high-reliability solar electric generating systems using the market's most advanced module-mounting technologies.

IronRidge is a leading manufacturer, designer and distributor of photovoltaic (PV) mounting solutions, having worked closely with hundreds of PV system installers and integrators on thousands of successful projects since 1996. IronRidge's wide range of rooftop and ground mounting solutions provides the ideal base for Kyocera's residential and commercial solar systems.

"Solar design, integration and installation experts worldwide appreciate the quality, durability and value of IronRidge mounting solutions," said Steve Hill, president, Kyocera Solar Inc.

"Kyocera maintains the highest standards for its solar solutions and our customers have enjoyed industry-leading results for almost four decades. Partnering with IronRidge is part of our ongoing commitment to providing the utmost quality solar products and services."

IronRidge recently released its Integrated Grounding System that bonds solar module frames directly to IronRidge Mounting Rails. By eliminating the need for separate module grounding parts and procedures, this innovation can help maximize the long-term reliability of a PV installation while minimizing customers' costs.

The IronRidge Integrated Grounding System has been tested and certified to the Underwriter's Laboratories UL 2703 standard, and Kyocera's modules will be UL 2703 certified compatible with the system in early 2014. Underwriters Laboratories is a global independent safety science company specializing in certification, validation, testing, inspections, auditing, education and advisory services.

UL 2703 certification allows module mounting and clamping components to be evaluated and listed as a grounding means. The certification is invaluable in helping installers to meet building code requirements, lower costs and streamline installation.

IronRidge also offers sophisticated online tools that make it easy for customers to efficiently configure and procure roof and ground-mounted systems for their specific projects.

Kyocera and IronRidge both have long records of success in the solar market, with knowledgeable and experienced engineers who focus on providing industry-leading customer service. The partnership is also logistically beneficial to Sun Belt customers: both feature engineering support located in the Phoenix / Scottsdale area, and offer shipping services from California and the Northeast region (NJ and PA).

"This partnership brings together two of the best-known names in the US solar industry," said William Kim, CEO of IronRidge. "Together, IronRidge and Kyocera bring decades of experience to each customer, and our collaboration will help ensure the highest-quality solar installations for decades to come."