Heliene and Origami Solar Forge Groundbreaking Partnership for U.S.-Made, Steel-Framed Solar Modules
In a strategic collaboration aimed at driving sustainability and cost-effectiveness in the solar energy sector, Heliene Inc. has joined forces with Origami Solar to introduce steel-framed solar modules to the North American market. This multi-year agreement, set to begin in April 2025, will offer bifacial modules with 144 and 156 half-cut cells, now featuring steel frames alongside the traditional aluminum options. These steel frames, sourced domestically, present a more resilient, durable, and eco-friendly alternative, furthering the commitment of both companies to the green energy revolution and sustainable manufacturing.
Steel Frames: The Future of Solar Durability
Origami Solar’s innovative steel frames are built to address the growing challenges of module fragility, particularly in the face of extreme weather events and the increasing size of solar panels. Unlike aluminum frames, which may be vulnerable to damage, Origami’s steel frames have undergone rigorous testing and have proven to be more resilient. By incorporating steel, Heliene ensures that their solar modules can withstand harsher conditions while maintaining performance over time.
This partnership also provides a significant advantage in terms of cost-efficiency. Origami’s steel frames eliminate the tariffs and supply chain risks associated with imported aluminum, offering U.S.-made steel as a reliable and scalable alternative. Moreover, the shift to steel reduces the embodied carbon in the frames by more than 90% compared to foreign aluminum, making it a sustainable choice for solar developers looking to lower their carbon footprint.
Strengthening the Domestic Solar Supply Chain
The partnership between Heliene and Origami Solar reflects a growing trend towards a more resilient and self-sufficient U.S. solar supply chain. With the addition of steel frames, Heliene’s solar modules not only offer cost savings but also support the domestic economy by reducing reliance on imported materials. The integration of domestically sourced steel further enhances the security of the supply chain and provides solar developers with a stable and reliable source of components.
In addition to the steel frame innovation, Heliene has already demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by entering into partnerships with other domestic suppliers, including SOLARCYCLE for recycled glass and Suniva and NorSun for U.S.-made silicon cells and wafers. These initiatives, along with the steel-frame modules, ensure that Heliene maintains a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving solar industry while aligning with the U.S. clean energy goals.
Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Enhanced Performance
Origami’s steel frames not only help reduce costs but also deliver long-term environmental benefits. The switch from aluminum to steel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by over 90%, contributing to the decarbonisation of the solar manufacturing process. This shift to steel frames aligns with broader efforts to mitigate climate change by reducing emissions in solar panel production.
The durability of steel frames also plays a significant role in ensuring the long-term performance of solar assets. From shipping to end-of-life, the strength and resilience of these frames protect the solar modules, safeguarding their value and performance throughout their operational life. These improvements make the steel-framed modules a reliable option for developers and EPCs seeking to future-proof their solar installations.
A Step Toward Cleaner and More Resilient Solar Energy
The partnership between Heliene Inc. and Origami Solar underscores the importance of domestic innovation in the pursuit of a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. As the solar industry evolves, the demand for more resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable solar products continues to grow. With this collaboration, both companies are well-positioned to meet these demands while driving forward the transition to clean energy in North America.
Key Takeaways:
• Heliene Inc. and Origami Solar have signed a multi-year agreement to offer steel-framed solar modules to the North American market starting in April 2025.
• The new modules will feature 144 and 156 half-cut bifacial designs with steel frames, offering improved strength and durability compared to aluminum frames.
• Steel frames reduce embodied carbon by over 90% compared to foreign aluminum, contributing to sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Steel-framed modules eliminate the tariff and supply chain risks associated with imported aluminum and provide a cost-effective, domestic solution for solar developers.
• The steel frames have undergone rigorous testing, ensuring superior performance and long-term resilience against extreme weather conditions.
• The partnership supports domestic supply chain development, as Heliene continues to source materials locally, including recycled glass, U.S.-made monocrystalline silicon cells, and silicon wafers.
• Heliene and Origami Solar are committed to driving the transition to steel-framed solar modules, offering a robust, sustainable, and cost-effective solution for solar developers and EPCs across North America.
