First Solar Plans $1.2 Billion to Add 4.4 GW of USA Solar Panel Capacity

First Solar announced a plan to invest up to $1.2 billion to expand USA solar panel production by 4.4 GW, CleanTechnica reported on August 31, 2022.

The plan

• Up to $1 billion for a fourth USA factory in the Southeast, with 3.5 GW of annual capacity. The state had not been named.
• About $185 million to add 0.9 GW across its three Ohio factories, bringing them to about 7 GW.
• More than 10 GW of USA capacity expected by 2025.

Why it stands out

First Solar makes thin-film cadmium telluride panels instead of silicon, which lets it avoid much of the silicon supply chain dominated by China. CleanTechnica noted that few USA panel makers pass a true domestic-content test, because many assemble panels from imported parts.

CEO Mark Widmar credited the Inflation Reduction Act with supporting the decision, though the plans were in the works before it passed.

FAQ

How much is First Solar investing?

Up to $1.2 billion.

How big is the new factory?

3.5 GW per year, in the Southeast.

What technology does First Solar use?

Thin-film cadmium telluride panels.