Solar technology provider Nextracker has signed a strategic framework agreement with solar module manufacturer T1 Energy Inc. for the supply of steel frames for T1’s new 5-gigawatt production facility in Dallas. The contract, valued at over $75mn, aims to deliver multiple gigawatts of solar frames over several years.
Expanding local industrial capacity
As part of the agreement, Nextracker will deploy its patented steel frame system to support T1 Energy’s US-based production. The goal is to replace traditional aluminium frames, typically imported from Asia, with steel frames manufactured in the United States. Nextracker’s technology relies on locally produced specialty steel, which both companies indicate offers greater durability and faster installation.
The majority of frames used in the photovoltaic sector are currently made from extruded aluminium. By turning to American steel, T1 Energy aims to reduce exposure to tariffs and global supply chain disruptions. The approach also seeks to increase the domestic content of components used in solar installations across the country.
Strengthening the solar supply chain
To support the industrial initiative, Nextracker plans to expand its existing steel frame production capacity in the Midwest by adding new manufacturing lines in Texas. This expansion will complement its current network of over a dozen local industrial partners that produce key components for solar tracking systems.
Under the terms of the agreement, frame manufacturing will begin as T1 Energy ramps up operations at its G1_Dallas facility. The plant is designed to meet growing demand in the US market, particularly from data centres and artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Positioning in the US photovoltaic market
Both companies emphasise that this collaboration could mark a key step in the reshoring of the US solar industry. By relying on proprietary technology and domestic steel sourcing, Nextracker aims to offer a competitive alternative to imported products.
Local manufacturing of critical components such as module frames is viewed as a strategic lever for securing energy supply. The partnership between Nextracker and T1 Energy forms part of a broader movement to build national value chains in the photovoltaic sector.
