Chinese solar panel manufacturers invest in US facilities

Several major Chinese solar panel manufacturers are significantly expanding their operations in the United States, fueled by incentives from President Joe Biden’s 2022 Inflation Reduction Act.

This surge in US solar manufacturing positions China to potentially dominate the burgeoning industry, even as domestic manufacturers face challenges despite federal subsidies.

Chinese companies are expected to establish at least 20 gigawatts of annual solar panel production capacity in the US within the next year, which could satisfy about half of the US market demand.

Illuminate USA, a joint venture between Longi and Invenergy, has launched a five-gigawatt solar plant in Pataskala, Ohio, with a $600 million investment, aiming for full capacity by the end of 2024, and plans to employ 1,000 workers.

Trina Solar is investing $200 million in a five-gigawatt solar module plant in Wilmer, Texas, set to begin production this year and create 1,500 jobs.

Jinko Solar is expanding its Jacksonville, Florida, facility from 400 megawatts to 1,200 megawatts with a $52 million investment, adding 250 jobs by 2026 for a total of 600.

JA Solar is investing $60 million in a new two-gigawatt panel plant in Phoenix, Arizona, projected to create over 600 jobs and start production this year.

Lastly, Hounen Solar is committing $33 million to a one-gigawatt factory in Orangeburg, South Carolina, expected to provide 200 jobs.

These developments highlight a significant shift towards clean energy manufacturing in the US as the nation seeks to enhance its renewable energy capabilities.