Array Technologieswhich provides monitoring solutions and services for utility-scale solar energy projects, entered into an agreement with Lock the connecting pipemechanical and structural steel pipe manufacturer to secure supplies from a new steel mill in Texas that manufactures utility solar pipes.
The new plant is located in Temple, Texas, where Lock Joint Tube has established operations. The new factory uses locally sourced steel in the production of solar tubes in response to domestic content requirements under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The cooperation between the companies creates new manufacturing jobs and utilizes automation technology to achieve optimal production efficiency.
“This investment in American manufacturing will provide local community jobs aligned with the renewable energy market, strengthen the integrity of the domestic solar supply chain, and support Array’s continued expansion in the United States, including Texas and throughout the Central United States,” said Kevin Hostetler, CEO of Array Technologies.
Lock Joint Tube is a supplier of steel tubes for solar panels and a supplier of torque tubes for tracking systems or solar panel tubes. Partnerships with established steel suppliers around the world enable Array to secure high-quality products for customers regionally and mitigate supply chain challenges.
The facility’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was held June 28 in Temple, Texas. Lock Joint Tube also manufactures tubing for Array at its steel torque tube plant in South Bend, Ind.
