The Amazing Racking Race: Which Solar Racking System Installs Fastest?
When it comes to solar, most homeowners talk about panels, inverters, or batteries. But there’s a hidden hero of every solar system — the racking that holds it all together. Without strong, reliable racking, panels won’t stay secure, installations take longer, and system performance can suffer.
That’s why the Amazing Racking Race, held at the Solar Training Centre in Victoria and supported by Clenergy, put three installation teams to the test. The goal? To find out how different racking systems stack up when it comes to installation speed, quality, and ease of use.
Why Racking Matters in Solar Installations
Most people at a barbecue will tell you about the size of their battery or how efficient their panels are. But the truth is simple:
Your solar system is only as good as the installer — and the racking system they use.
A well-designed racking system ensures:
Fast, safe installation for solar installers
Durability to withstand Australia’s harsh conditions
Flexibility to suit different roof types
Long-term reliability for homeowners
That’s exactly what this race set out to test.
The Race Format
To keep things fair and independent, solar industry veteran Nigel Morris acted as head judge. Each of the three teams rotated across three roofs, with three different racking systems — including Clenergy’s industry-leading solar racking solution.
The challenge was focused on:
Securing the feet
Laying rail
Splicing and panel clamping
No electrical connections were included. The aim was purely to measure speed, safety, and ease of racking installation.
Meet the Teams
Xtech Renewables – A young but determined team keen to prove their speed.
Solar 360 – Backed by distributor support and installer experience.
Anova Energy – The most seasoned crew with more than 15 years combined solar experience.
Round Highlights
Round One: Xtech started strong but fell behind due to clamp alignment issues. Anova’s experience gave them the edge.
Round Two: Solar 360 powered through with smoother teamwork, but extra screws on some systems slowed progress.
Round Three: A nail-biting finish, with Anova again demonstrating consistency, while others battled fiddly clamps and minor misalignments.
In the end, Anova Energy took first place, proving that consistency and experience often beat raw speed.
Key Lessons from the Racking Race
Every second counts: Some systems required two screws per foot, effectively doubling installation time.
Clamp design matters: Fiddly clamps slowed multiple teams, highlighting how racking design can impact efficiency.
Durability vs speed: While some systems installed faster, installers noted the importance of long-term strength and safety.
Clenergy Racking: Standing Out in the Test
While the race was all about fun and competition, it highlighted what installers already know — Clenergy racking systems are designed for speed, safety, and simplicity.
Clenergy offers:
Rapid installation with fewer components
Proven reliability in Australian conditions
Trusted by installers nationwide
Versatile solutions for residential, commercial, and ground-mount projects
For homeowners, choosing a solar installer who uses Clenergy means confidence that your panels are secure, your system will last, and your investment is protected.
Why It Matters for Homeowners
You don’t have to be on the roof to see the value of quality racking. Choosing the right installer and system ensures:
Faster, safer installation
Lower long-term maintenance costs
Better protection for your panels and roof
Peace of mind knowing your solar is built to last
Final Results of the Amazing Racking Race
🥉 Third Place: Solar 360 – fast in bursts, but slowed by clamp challenges
🥈 Second Place: Xtech Renewables – strong start, but a few setbacks dropped them back
🥇 First Place: Anova Energy – consistent, safe, and steady throughout
Conclusion: Don’t Overlook Solar Racking
The Amazing Racking Race showed that racking is more than just metal rails on a roof — it’s the backbone of every solar system. Clenergy’s racking solutions proved their ability to deliver fast installs and reliable long-term performance, making them a trusted choice for installers and homeowners alike.
If you’re considering solar, remember this: your panels and batteries are only as good as the racking and the installer behind them.
