Solar frame makers explore steel, glass alternatives to aluminum

As quality concerns and domestic content rules reshape the solar supply chain, manufacturers are reconsidering the aluminum frames that have dominated PV modules for a decade, with steel and composite alternatives gaining industry attention

First covered Sep 2, 2026 · 1:00 AM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

Solar frame makers explore steel, glass alternatives to aluminum — Image via pv-magazine.com

Coverage

24d PV Magazine New materials in the frame — Solar cells, encapsulants, glass, backsheets, and virtually every PV module component have seen rapid changes and improvements over the past 10 years.

More coverage from around the web

solarpowerworldonline.com Steel is being considered as an alternative to aluminum solar panel frames

zetwerk.com Steel Vs. Aluminium Frames for Solar Panels - Zetwerk

solarpowerworldonline.com New report shows steel solar module frames are greener than aluminum

shenghai-alu.com Aluminum Frame For Solar Panel Is The Best Choice

znshinesolar.com Advances in Solar Module Frame Technology: A Comparative Analysis of Materials - ZNSHINE PV-TECH Co.,Ltd

Appeared in: 2026-09-02 (#9)

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