#United States #solar cells #ES Foundry #Greenwood, South Carolina #Greenwood SC

ES Foundry's Major Factory Expansion

In a remarkable development for the U.S. solar industry, ES Foundry has successfully completed a significant 2 gigawatt (GW) expansion at its manufacturing facility in Greenwood, South Carolina. This landmark achievement not only increases the company's annual solar cell production to a remarkable total of 3 GW but also represents a crucial advancement in American solar manufacturing by creating over 400 advanced manufacturing jobs in the region.

The newly expanded facilities of ES Foundry now enable the production of high-quality crystalline bifacial PERC solar cells, critical components for solar modules. As the solar power market continues to flourish domestically, the demand for reliable solar cells is paramount. Currently, while module manufacturing capacity has surged, the availability of solar cells has been a bottleneck in ensuring a resilient supply chain. ES Foundry's new production line is set to bridge this gap, directly benefitting module manufacturers, developers, and project owners across the United States.

CEO Alex Zhu emphasized the importance of this accomplishment by stating, "The U.S. solar market does not need more announcements — it needs operating capacity, proven production, and domestic suppliers that can support customers now." With the production of the first solar cell off the new line, ES Foundry showcases its commitment to executing its plans effectively rather than merely announcing future intentions. This proactive approach underlines the necessity for operational capacity in a rapidly evolving market.

ES Foundry's production capabilities not only match high-volume needs but also comply with rigorous quality standards and documentation requirements, which are increasingly critical in solar procurement. As these standards have tightened, solar developers are looking for reliable domestic sources to meet compliance under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which promotes domestic content in solar projects.

The expansion positions ES Foundry at the forefront of solar cell manufacturing, solidifying its role as a trusted supplier for companies navigating the newly complex procurement landscape. By mitigating supply chain uncertainties and ensuring domestic content strategies, the Greenwood facility stands to empower various stakeholders in the solar ecosystem, including developers and asset owners.

Furthermore, ES Foundry's growth is significantly impacting the local economic landscape. The company has fostered a workforce that exceeds 400 employees, providing skilled job opportunities and supporting training initiatives across Greenwood County. Lionel Moss, General Manager of Operations, remarked on the warm partnership with the Greenwood community, stating, "This community has the workforce, infrastructure, and commitment needed to support advanced manufacturing at scale."

Since its ribbon-cutting ceremony in January 2025, this expansion is a testament to ES Foundry's potential to lead a pivotal chapter in the U.S. solar manufacturing journey. Zhu articulated the essence of this initiative: "Domestic solar cell manufacturing is not a future ambition — it is happening now in Greenwood, South Carolina."

In conclusion, the completion of the expansion to 3 GW not only fulfills the growing demand for American-made solar products but is also instrumental in reinforcing the country's clean energy goals. By enhancing domestic production capabilities, ES Foundry helps cultivate a more competitive and compliant solar supply chain that can confidently support the inevitable transition towards renewable energy.

ES Foundry stands as a prime example of how American industries can innovate and grow in alignment with sustainability objectives, heralding a promising future for solar technology in the U.S.