a unitized photovoltaic assembly is disclosed . a unitized photovoltaic assembly consists of a unitary frame designed to retain a plurality of photovoltaic modules . the unitary frame is formed by orienting a plurality of rails in the lateral direction above and mounted to a plurality of struts oriented in the vertical direction . once the unitary framed is formed , photovoltaic modules slide into slots running the length of the rails and are thus retained in the unitary frame . also added to the unitary frame are a series of power conversion elements , retaining brackets , mounting brackets , and cleaning elements . the completed unitized photovoltaic assembly can be fabricated off - site , transported as a single unit and installed to a roof or other surface with the use of a specialized lifting frame , also disclosed . additional unitized photovoltaic assemblies can be mechanically and electrically interconnected to form a complete photovoltaic system .