Origami Solar has begun making steel solar panel frames in the United States after commissioning its first automated line at Priefert Steel’s Benton, Arkansas, facility.
Developed in collaboration with Priefert Steel and automation partner DAC Robotics, this production system is the only steel frame manufacturer in the United States for solar panels. Origami Solar’s steel frames address the challenges facing U.S. solar manufacturers by providing a domestically sourced alternative to foreign aluminum frames, at a significantly lower cost versus domestic aluminum frames.
The company says that steel module frames offer superior strength, a 90% lower carbon footprint and quick one- to two-day day domestic transport, eliminating the risks associated with weaker imported aluminum frames and risky overseas supply chains, which are subject to delays, geopolitical instability and tariffs.
The announcement of 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum further highlights the risks and uncertainty attached to imported frames — as well as the surging cost. The policy underscores the critical need for a secure, domestic supply chain — one that Origami Solar is delivering by scaling steel frame manufacturing in the United States.
With Priefert Steel’s expertise in steel roll-forming products for the solar industry and DAC Robotics’ automated production systems, Origami’s manufacturing approach transforms flat steel coils into complete solar frame components in seconds. The fully automated system integrates continuous steel frame forming with customer-specific frame lengths, hole punching and corner key insertion. The DAC Robotics’ custom automation system integrates in-line final assembly and packaging.
“By partnering with best-in-class companies like Priefert Steel and DAC Robotics, we are not only producing a superior frame but also building a scalable and de-risked domestic supply chain,” said Gregg Patterson, CEO of Origami Solar. “Delivering cost-effective steel module frames leverages a robust and ready U.S. steel manufacturing industry, creates jobs, and enhances the security and reliability of the solar supply chain.”
News item from Origami Solar
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