en.Wedoany.com Reported - US solar manufacturer Thornova Solar has entered into a strategic partnership with photovoltaic solutions provider Nextpower to adopt its steel frames in select modules. Under the agreement, Thornova will deploy Nextpower's domestically produced steel frames in a range of selected modules for utility-scale, commercial, and industrial applications.

Thornova stated that Nextpower's steel module frame design is widely compatible with trackers and fixed-tilt mounting systems, while reducing module deflection, lowering glass breakage risk, and improving pull-out resistance. The company added that these advantages are particularly important in storm-prone regions, such as the Midwest and Southeast of the United States, which are high-wind zones.

Andrea Bodenhagen, Global Marketing Director at Thornova Solar, noted that incorporating US-made steel frames into modules also helps increase domestic content subsidies and improve project economics. This move aligns with Thornova's plans to expand its US solar manufacturing capacity. Outside the US, the company produces solar cells and modules in Kenya and Indonesia, with its Indonesian factory achieving an annual nameplate module capacity of 2.5 GW as early as 2024.

Jenya Meydbray, Vice President and General Manager of Nextpower, said: "Steel frames address some of the most critical mechanical challenges facing solar projects today, from module deflection and glass breakage risk to uplift forces in demanding environments. By adopting Nextpower's US-manufactured frame technology, Thornova can offer modules designed to meet the structural needs of solar projects across the United States."

PV Tech recently spoke with Meydbray about steel frames ahead of attending the US PV ModuleTech conference, and will publish the interview later this week.

Since acquiring steel frame manufacturer Origami Solar in September 2025, Nextpower has signed supply agreements with T1 Energy (one month after the acquisition) and, earlier this year, with JinkoSolar. Thornova Solar is the latest solar manufacturer to adopt steel frames in some of its US modules.

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