As the world accelerates its transition to renewable energy, solar power has emerged as a cornerstone of this transformation with help from steel manufacturing. Beyond generating clean electricity, the solar boom is invigorating traditional industries, like steel. From mounting systems to trackers and frames, steel is indispensable in constructing robust and efficient solar installations. The renewable energy surge is catalyzing steel demand, reshaping supply chains, and fostering innovations in sustainable steel production.​

The Solar-Steel Nexus

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems rely heavily on steel for its strength and durability. Key components such as mounting structures, torque tubes for trackers, and panel frames are predominantly made of steel, chosen for its strength, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability. As solar installations scale up globally, the demand for these steel components is experiencing a significant uptick.​

Scout Metals works exclusively with companies that are at the forefront of new technologies, developing advanced steel-based solutions tailored for solar applications. Technologies can now adapt efficiently to uneven terrains, enhancing energy capture and project performance.

Galvanized Steel: The Backbone of Solar Infrastructure

Galvanized steel, known for its corrosion resistance and longevity, is a staple in solar infrastructure. Its application in trackers and mounting systems ensures the durability of solar installations across diverse environmental conditions. According to National Material Company, galvanized steel’s robustness makes it ideal for supporting solar panels, contributing to the overall efficiency and lifespan of solar projects.​

Renewable Energy Driving Sustainable Steel Production

The relationship between solar power and steel is reciprocal. While solar projects demand steel, the steel industry is increasing to turn to renewable energy sources to reduce carbon in its operations. Traditional steelmaking is energy-intensive and a large source of carbon emissions. However, innovations are paving the way for greener steel production.

For instance, Rio Tinto is supplying 70% of the iron ore needed for a new hydrogen-based steelmaking plant in Austria, aiming to reduce  carbon emissions by using hydrogen instead of coal. This initiative marks a shift towards sustainable practices in steel manufacturing, aligning with the broader goals of the renewable energy sector.​

Policy and Market Dynamics

Government policies and market dynamics are key in shaping the steel industry’s response to renewable energy demands. In the United States, initiatives to modernize the steel sector include investments in electric arc furnace (EAF) technology. EAF utilizes scrap metal and renewable energy, reducing carbon footprints. BlueScope’s North Star steelworks in Ohio embraced this trend, producing steel with a significantly lower environmental impact.

Moreover, the push for green steel is gaining momentum globally. Organizations like the Climate Group are advocating for net-zero steel production, encouraging industries to adopt sustainable practices. Such efforts are crucial in meeting climate goals and growing a circular economy.​

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the positive path, some challenges persist. The steel industry must steer the hard road of moving to low-carbon production methods. These require big investments and technological upgrades. Additionally, ensuring that renewable energy is available to power steel plants is vital to operation.​

However, these challenges present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Startups like Electra are pioneering electrochemical processes to produce iron at lower temperatures using renewable energy, aiming to reduce emissions quite a bit. Furthermore, such new tech  could recast steel production. Many new solar technologies make the steel industry greener and aligned with the needs of the renewable energy sector. Undoubtedly we look forward to keeping up with all the new and exciting tech that continues to help the solar and steel industries work together well into the future.​

Intersection of Solar and Steel

Obviously the joining of solar power and steel manufacturing is an ideal connection of industries in the pursuit of sustainability. As solar energy continues to expand, it propels the demand for steel, while prompting the steel industry try to adopt greener practices. Accordingly, these industries working well together shows the importance of a strong collaboration in order to achieve climate objectives. Building a strong, low-carbon economy helps all of us.​