Origami Solar unfolds first domestic production facility
Origami Solar has unveiled a new automated module frame manufacturing line in Benton, Arkansas. This is the first of many state-of-the-art facilities the company will commission through a collaboration with Priefert Steel, which owns the Benton site, and automation partner DAC Robotics.
The strategic partnership and module production capacity come just as the Trump administration is set to impose 25% tariffs on all imported steel and aluminum. Developed in collaboration with Priefert Steel and DAC Robotics, this advanced production system represents a key strategic advantage in manufacturing high-performance steel solar module frames at scale to meet Origami Solar’s growing U.S. demand.
“By partnering with best-in-class companies like Priefert Steel and DAC Robotics, we are not only producing a superior frame but also building a scalable and de-risked domestic supply chain,” said Gregg Patterson, CEO of Origami Solar. “Delivering cost-effective steel module frames leverages a robust and ready U.S. steel manufacturing industry, creates jobs, and enhances the security and reliability of the solar supply chain.”
The Origami Solar’s steel frames address the challenges facing U.S. solar manufacturers by providing a domestically sourced alternative to foreign aluminum frames, at a significantly lower cost vs. domestic aluminum frames. Steel module frames offer strength, 90% lower carbon footprint, and quick 1- to 2-day domestic transport, eliminating the risks associated with weaker imported aluminum frames and risky overseas supply chains, which are subject to delays, geopolitical instability and tariffs.
The announcement of 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum further highlights the risks and uncertainty attached to imported frames — as well as the surging cost. The policy underscores the critical need for a secure, domestic supply chain, which Origami Solar is delivering by increasing steel frame manufacturing in the U.S.
Collaboration builds strength
With Priefert’s expertise in steel roll-forming products for the solar industry and DAC Robotics’ automated production systems, Origami’s manufacturing approach transforms flat steel coils into complete solar frame components in seconds. The fully automated system integrates continuous steel frame forming with customer-specific frame lengths, hole punching and corner key insertion. The DAC Robotics’ custom automation system integrates in-line final assembly and packaging, delivering high-quality components with efficiency and precision.
Priefert’s rich history in steel production has evolved into a robust presence in the renewable energy sector. Since expanding into solar in 2017, the company has become a trusted name in high-quality steel solutions, blending traditional values with forward-thinking innovation. The Benton facility exemplifies their commitment to building sustainable solutions while creating jobs in local communities.
“We are excited to partner with Origami Solar on the first of many automated manufacturing lines for their uniquely strong thin steel profiles,” said Rocky Christenberry, VP of manufacturing at Priefert Steel. “This partnership allows us to deliver a high-quality, high-volume steel frame solution that strengthens U.S. manufacturing and ensures the solar industry has a superior domestic alternative.”
DAC Robotics, a leader in custom robotics automation, streamlined the production process from corner insertion to frame stacking, banding, and palletizing, ensuring precision and eliminating waste.
“Our collaboration with Origami Solar and Priefert Steel highlights what’s possible when robotics are integrated with high-speed manufacturing,” said Mark Ganninger, CEO of DAC Robotics. “Our expertise in end-of-line packaging systems made this project a perfect fit. We are excited to repeat this process and scale the business with Origami as their demand grows.”
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