Solar module frame makers explore steel and glass alternatives to aluminum

As quality concerns, supply chain diversification, and domestic content rules reshape the industry, frame manufacturers are testing new materials beyond the aluminum frames that have dominated solar module design for a decade.

First covered Aug 19, 2026 · 9:00 PM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

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

Coverage

38d 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

origamisolar.com Steel Module Frames | Origami Solar, Inc ...

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

pvknowhow.com Solar Panel Frame & Framing Machine: A Complete Guide

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

Appeared in: 2026-08-20 (#4)

← Back to the brief