First Solar’s $330M South Carolina Facility to Boost US Capacity and Create 600 New Jobs

Major US Expansion Will Lift Production to Nearly 18 GW by 2027

First Solar has announced plans for a new $330 million manufacturing facility in Gaffney, South Carolina, aiming to significantly expand its domestic solar module output. Scheduled to open in the second half of 2026, the plant is expected to deliver 3.7 gigawatts (GW) of annual nameplate capacity and create more than 600 high-quality jobs, with average salaries of $74,000—roughly double the local per capita income.

Domestic Solar Manufacturing Gets a Major Boost from New Policy

The expansion comes as a direct response to heightened demand for US-made energy technology, fueled by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which prioritizes American production and compliance with Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) guidelines. Once online, this new site will bring First Solar’s total US capacity to nearly 17.7 GW by 2027, reinforcing its position as the leading American-headquartered solar manufacturer.

Investment and Job Impact: Significant Economic Ripple Effects

First Solar’s South Carolina facility isn’t just about new modules—it represents a key step in expanding the largest solar R&D and manufacturing footprint in the Western Hemisphere. The company estimates total US investments at approximately $4.5 billion since 2019, with a nationwide employment target of over 5,500 by the end of 2026. According to the company’s projections, more than 30,000 jobs will be supported across the US when direct, indirect, and induced roles are included, resulting in over $3 billion in labor income.

Policy-Driven Expansion: Responding to US Clean Energy Demand

First Solar’s rapid domestic growth aligns with federal incentives for American-made energy products. CEO Mark Widmar highlighted the urgency, noting, “The passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and the Administration’s trade policies boosted demand for American energy technology, requiring a timely, agile response.” The new Gaffney facility is expected to deliver fully compliant Series 6 Plus modules to help meet these stringent requirements.

What Does This Mean for Investors and the Industry?

This expansion reflects a strategic long-term commitment to American solar leadership, both in jobs and technological innovation. With ongoing investments in vertically integrated facilities across Ohio, Alabama, and Louisiana—plus R&D centers in Ohio and California—First Solar is cementing its US market presence at a critical time for the industry.

While construction and completion carry standard project risks, First Solar’s continued push for domestic growth, coupled with favorable policy momentum, could serve as a bellwether for broader trends in the renewable energy sector. For investors and industry observers, this is a development worth following as competition and federal priorities continue to reshape the US solar landscape.

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