First Solar announced plans on July 27, 2023 for a fifth manufacturing facility in the USA, investing $1.1 billion in 3.5 GW of annual production capacity, pv magazine USA reported.
Key facts
- The factory will make Series 7 modules expected to use 100 percent USA-made components as identified in Treasury’s domestic content guidance.
- Once operational in 2026, it would bring First Solar to about 14 GW of U.S. capacity and 25 GW worldwide.
- The plant is expected to add more than 700 jobs. The location had not been disclosed.
- First Solar had already announced a $1.3 billion, 3.5 GW plant in Alabama and a 0.9 GW expansion in Ohio.
- The company reported an order backlog of over 78 GW.
Total direct U.S. jobs at First Solar were projected to top 4,000 by 2026.
“By expanding America’s solar manufacturing base, and the value chains that support it, we are working to ensure that the U.S. enters the next decade in a position of strength.”
Mark Widmar, CEO, First Solar
FAQ
How much will First Solar invest?
$1.1 billion for 3.5 GW of capacity.
When will it open?
The factory was expected to be operational in 2026.
How many jobs?
More than 700 at the new facility.
Source & credit
Source: pv magazine USA, July 27, 2023: “First Solar announces fifth U.S. manufacturing facility”.