The Green Blueprint

How supply chain chaos sank Sunfolding

8 snips
Feb 26, 2025
Leila Madrone, founder and former CTO of SunFolding, shares her journey of pioneering a solar tracker with innovative pneumatic technology. She discusses the challenges her startup faced, including a critical redesign after field tests and the pressures of the rapidly evolving solar market. Leila reflects on the difficult choices during the pandemic that impacted funding and operations. She emphasizes the lessons learned about navigating supply chain issues and the importance of fostering innovative funding strategies for climate-focused startups.
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ANECDOTE

Davis Project Challenges

  • Sunfolding's first major field test in Davis, California, revealed design flaws.
  • The project highlighted the importance of real-world testing and interactions.
ANECDOTE

Early Solar Experience

  • Leila Madrone worked at a solar startup focused on moving large lenses.
  • The company struggled due to high solar costs, inspiring her to found Sunfolding.
INSIGHT

Sunfolding's Innovation

  • Sunfolding aimed to simplify solar tracker design for manufacturability.
  • They reduced components and steel usage compared to traditional trackers.
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