Outdoor photovoltaic solar panel steel frame

Why do you need a steel frame for a solar module?

Replacing aluminum frames with Origami Solar’s patented, roll-formed steel frame improves the performance of the entire module by protecting module glass and solar cells from damage. Higher performing Origami steel frames reduce installation breakage and cell cracks that reduce energy production and increase O&M costs over the life of a project.

Which material should a solar panel be made of?

For ground-mounted solar panels, the material choice is less critical. Both aluminum and steel can support the panel weight, but aluminum makes future setup adjustments easier. Unless your solar panels will be exposed to severe weather conditions, aluminum is the preferred choice. What Are Solar Panel Frames Made of?

Are origami solar solar panels green?

The company reports that the frames are made of “green” recycled steel, thereby reducing greenhouse gases by up to 93%, representing a reduction of 80 kg per module or 200 metric tons per MW. Origami Solar was founded by Eric Hafter and Jack Patton to try to bring innovation and cost reduction to solar module production.

Is recycled steel a good choice for solar panels?

Recycled steel produces even less GHGs. “Our Gen 2 frames are lighter, stronger and ideally suited to provide superior support to the new large-format modules coming to market,” said Gregg Patterson, CEO of Origami Solar.

Is aluminum better than steel for solar panels?

According to Origami Solar, using aluminum for module frames contributes more than ten times the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than its steel frames. The company said emissions are 14 kg of per 1 kg of aluminum, whereas steel production results in about 1.2 kg of GHGs for every 1 kg of steel. Recycled steel produces even less GHGs.

Should solar developers switch from aluminum to steel frames?

For an industry committed to delivering clean energy, the switch from aluminum to steel frames delivers a dramatic decarbonization benefit and is the obvious procurement choice for solar developers and investors.