Solar

Origami Solar module frame targets IRA domestic content incentives

Origami Solar module frame targets IRA domestic content incentives

Origami Solar is releasing its Gen 2 steel module frame, which the company said is lighter and provides enhanced structural performance compared to its first-generation prototype.

The Oregon-based company said it aims to disrupt Asian supply chains by using regional steel resources “to end the solar industry’s reliance on imported aluminum.”

It said that sourcing domestic steel frames can tap into domestic content incentives included in the Inflation Reduction Act.

Gregg Patterson, CEO, said in a statement that the company’s frames are suited to support large-format modules coming into the market. 

Welser Profile, a manufacturer of roll-formed steel products, is partnering with Origami to produce the steel frames.

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Origami said it plans to use recycled or “green” steel, potentially reducing production-related greenhouse gases by up to 93%. It said its frames are available for evaluation testing by module makers and other partners.

Last summer, said it received favorable product test results from testing lab TECSI Solar, including toe clamping, downforce, up force, laminate rigidity and installation compatibility compared with existing racking systems. Last fall, Origami received $500,000 in cash and $75,000 in voucher support through the Energy Department’s American-Made Solar Prize competition to advance its technology to commercialization.