First Solar Inaugurates First Phase of South Carolina Production Facility
Business Wire•28/10/2026•17:46 ET
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Key Highlights
- ➤$330 million Gaffney facility’s second phase targets 3.4 GW annual capacity by mid-2027
- ➤First phase onshores final production of Series 6 Plus modules in South Carolina
- ➤CuRe technology production and nearly 700 jobs expected after second-phase completion
- ➤First Solar forecasts approximately 17 GW US module capacity by 2027
- ➤First Solar expects over $5 billion invested in US manufacturing and R&D through 2026
Expert Statements
Henry McMaster, Governor of South Carolina
“Thanks to First Solar’s investment, South Carolinians are building American energy technology in Gaffney, with nearly 700 good-paying jobs expected to support this critical work”
Darline Graham, US Senator
“I’m proud to see First Solar’s investment in South Carolina, which supports an America-first, affordable energy agenda. First Solar is showing their vote of confidence in hardworking South Carolinians, and we welcome their investment. Good paying jobs provide solid foundations for families and communities right here in Cherokee County”
Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce
“First Solar is winning in America because they’ve invented their own technology, they’re building their own technology, and they’re building it in South Carolina”
Howard Lutnick, US Secretary of Commerce
“It’s exceptional American technology produced by great American workers. That’s what we’re driving for, and that’s why we’re here today.”
Lyman D. Dawkins III, Mayor of Gaffney, South Carolina
“When we invest in jobs, we’re investing in possibilities for our people. And it doesn’t stop with the folks who work at First Solar. It reaches the small businesses that are the backbone of our community. Thank you for planting your flag in Gaffney and showing everyone that greatness is already here”
Mark Widmar, Chief Executive Officer of First Solar
“Less than a year after we selected Gaffney, this facility is ready to produce American solar technology, built by South Carolinian workers”
Mark Widmar, Chief Executive Officer of First Solar
“That pace reflects what is possible when sound policy, strong state and local partners, and a committed workforce align. Every module that leaves this facility is made without dependence on Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains, and it strengthens our ability to deliver the certainty our customers need as American electricity demand grows.”
First Solar Inaugurates First Phase of South Carolina Production Facility
Sixth US facility part of over $5 billion First Solar has invested in American manufacturing and R&D since 2019
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