Solar Structural Engineering & Performance Expert

Specialties & Experience of this Expert Witness

Additional Information

Christopher Klinga, P.E., is a licensed Professional Engineer in Colorado with over 19 years of experience in solar photovoltaic (PV) system design, structural engineering, and product development. He holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder and has previously held the NABCEP PV Installation Professional certification. Mr. Klinga began his career at Lumos Solar, where he contributed to the development of architecturally integrated solar modules and racking systems. As Principal and Founder of SolMotiv, LLC, he has led the engineering and structural design of rooftop solar systems nationwide, including flat and pitched roof racking systems, hybrid ballasted and mechanically attached systems, and building-integrated solar applications. In addition to engineering services, SolMotiv serves as a photovoltaic asset manager for commercial and industrial solar portfolios. In this capacity, Mr. Klinga regularly analyzes system performance data, production modeling assumptions, degradation trends, and operational anomalies. This work includes evaluation of underperformance claims, inverter and module reliability issues, weather normalization analysis, and long-term production forecasting. His asset management experience provides a practical, data-driven foundation for opinions related to solar performance disputes and damages assessments. His technical expertise spans solar structural failures, wind uplift analysis, load sharing evaluation, ballast and anchorage design, module reliability, system performance analysis, and code compliance under ASCE 7 and the International Building Code. He has provided expert analysis and testimony in matters involving wind-related failures of ballasted rooftop solar arrays, engineering standard of care, design calculation errors, construction defect disputes, and solar underperformance claims. Mr. Klinga also serves as Technical Director of the Architectural Solar Association and member of IEC Technical Comittee 82 on PV Standards Development.