FTC Solar, a global solar tracker systems provider, and Taihua New Energy (Thailand), a steel fabricator, have formed a joint venture agreement to create Alpha Steel, a manufacturing partnership dedicated to producing steel components, including torque tubes, for utility-scale solar projects.

“This agreement will further enhance our domestic supply chain, and our ability to support our customers and the growth of the U.S. solar market, with domestic manufacturing utilizing U.S. steel,” said Sean Hunkler, CEO of FTC Solar. “We’re pleased to announce an expanded relationship with Taihua New Energy, an existing partner and a top global fabricator as we grow our presence in Texas.”

The Alpha Steel facility, located outside of Houston in Sealy, Texas, is expected to begin commercial production in mid-2023.

“This new production line will include state-of-the-art equipment to help FTC quickly deploy its differentiated technology to customers,” said Kailiang Ji, CEO of Taihua New Energy, who has been named the general manager of Alpha Steel. “We’re proud to continue to support the growth of clean energy in the United States and expand our relationship with FTC Solar.”

News item from FTC Solar