USISAC Convert Steel: Valmont Invests in Structural Innovation to Advance Solar Energy and Urban Infrastructure
- EnergyChannel - United States.
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
In the race for more sustainable, efficient, and long-lasting solutions in the energy sector, the materials used in structures have taken center stage. A strong example is the advancement of USISAC Convert weathering steel, developed by Valmont Solar in partnership with Enel Green Power, Usiminas, the University of Rome, and Convert Italia.
Far from being just an aesthetic choice, this is an engineering solution with real impacts on performance, longevity, and environmental sustainability.
This technology is now at the heart of various structures used in both urban infrastructure and large-scale solar power plants — reinforcing Valmont's commitment to innovation, advanced engineering, and a solid energy transition.
Strength That Evolves Over Time
USISAC Convert is Valmont’s proprietary version of Corten steel, also known as weathering steel. Its special chemical composition — including elements such as copper, chromium, and phosphorus — allows the material to develop a self-protective patina when exposed to the environment. This surface layer acts as a shield against corrosion, eliminating the need for galvanization or anti-corrosive painting.
In addition to its distinctive and natural look — with earthy tones that evolve with the climate — the material offers:
Longer lifespan
Low maintenance
High structural performance in harsh environments
20% reduction in CO₂ emissions during steel processing
The USISAC Convert steel technology complies with the highest quality standards, such as EN 40-5 and international certifications, ensuring structural safety and reliability.
Strategic Use in Photovoltaic Power Plants
USISAC Convert steel is proving to be a strategic element in solar energy projects — especially in remote areas with challenging soils and extreme climate variations. Its performance has been validated under critical conditions, as seen in Brazilian solar plants like Ituverava/Horizonte (350 MW), Caldeirão Grande 2 (250 MW) and Verde Vale III (17 MW) — the latter being the first in the world to use solar trackers made from weathering steel.
Key Benefits for the Solar Sector:
✅ Superior durability – long-lasting resistance without painting or galvanizing✅ Lower operational costs – fewer inspections and maintenance required✅ Visual integration with the landscape – natural aesthetics ideal for preservation zones✅ Reduced environmental impact – no toxic waste and significant CO₂ reduction✅ Structural safety – stability for modules, inverters, and trackers even on uneven terrain
In addition, 100% domestic production — through a strong partnership with Usiminas — allows Valmont to offer shorter lead times, better quality control, and more stable pricing throughout the project lifecycle.
A Solid Innovation Trajectory
With over 70 years of global experience, Valmont is a leading reference in structures for energy, mobility, and infrastructure. The launch of Valmont Solar in 2022 consolidated this expertise into a brand focused exclusively on the photovoltaic sector, delivering strong results:
📊 US$ 4.3 billion in annual revenue👥 11,000 employees in over 100 countries🏗️ 84 factories around the world⚡ 5.5 GW of Convert trackers installed globally☀️ Over 2 GWp in solar projects accumulated in Brazil
Strategic Partnerships and National Presence
Valmont Solar already supplies major market players such as Enel Green Power, Atlas, Engie, Norsk, Raízen, Toyo Setal, Lightsource BP, Ibitu Energia, Enerside, Trinity, Araxá, Evolua, Faro Energy, among others.
Its operations in Brazil are distinguished by:
Local production and vertically integrated supply chain
Greater cost predictability and reduced exchange rate risks
Scalable production capacity and regional inventories
A Material of the Future — Available Today
With USISAC Convert, Valmont delivers more than structures — it delivers complete solutions with customized engineering, unmatched durability, and environmental responsibility at the core. For the solar energy sector, this represents a technological leap combining performance, cost-effectiveness, and visual harmony. A true framework for the future of energy infrastructure.
The USISAC Convert steel technology was recognized internationally and featured at ABM Week — one of the world’s top conferences in the steel industry.
USISAC Convert Steel: Valmont Invests in Structural Innovation to Advance Solar Energy and Urban Infrastructure
EnergyChannel | Specialized Journalism in Energy, Innovation & Sustainability🌐 www.energychannel.co
USISAC Convert Steel: Valmont Invests in Structural Innovation to Advance Solar Energy and Urban Infrastructure
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