The city of Gaffney in Cherokee County has been selected as the next site for a solar manufacturing plant that will consolidate First Solar’ s industrial strategy in the United States.
First Solar’s expansion in South Carolina
The solar plant is expected to begin commercial operations in the second half of 2026, generating more than 600 new jobs with average wages twice the county’s per capita income. This development aligns with the sustained growth of First Solar, whose industrial footprint spans Ohio, Alabama, Louisiana and South Carolina.
The expansion is motivated by the growing demand for U.S.-made energy technology, driven by energy legislation passed in July 2025. With this plant, the company will reach an installed capacity of 17.7 gigawatts in 2027, complying with regulations that exclude Foreign Interest Entities (FEOCs) from the solar value chain.
The new facility will convert thin-film cells manufactured abroad The new facility will convert thin-film cells manufactured abroad into finished modules, increasing the domestic content of the product. With this step, First Solar strengthens its commitment to advanced PV technology. advanced photovoltaic technology technology developed at R&D centers in California and Ohio.
CEO Mark Widmar mentioned that this investment responds with agility to the demands of the U.S. market, while South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster celebrated the arrival of an industry that diversifies the local economy and strengthens the country’s energy independence.
Since 2002, First Solar has maintained its commitment to domestic manufacturing, becoming the only major solar panel producer based in the U.S. In addition, its cumulative investment in infrastructure and R&D centers amounts to $4.5 billion since 2019.
The Gaffney plant adds to First Solar’s network of advanced facilities, positioning the company to respond to current and future energy policies. By integrating high-efficiency manufacturing processes, competitive wages and alignment with federal regulations, the company enhances its role in the transformation of the U.S. energy sector.
Source and photo: First Solar
