#United States #solar cells #ES Foundry #Greenwood #PERC Technology

ES Foundry's Remarkable 2025 Journey in Solar Cell Manufacturing

As we reflect on the achievements of 2025, ES Foundry emerges as a beacon of progress in America’s renewable energy landscape. This innovative company, headquartered in Greenwood, South Carolina, is not just contributing to the U.S. solar industry; it is revolutionizing it through onshore production of crystalline solar cells.

Milestones in Domestic Solar Production

The year has not been without its challenges, but ES Foundry has made significant strides towards establishing a robust domestic solar cell manufacturing base. By achieving full-scale production of PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Contact) solar cells, the company has set a new standard that aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act's (IRA) domestic content requirements. ES Foundry's commitment to compliance with Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) standards ensures that developers and asset owners can mitigate risks associated with imported supply chains.

According to recent findings from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), there has been a growing national demand for domestic solar manufacturing solutions. ES Foundry stands out as one of the very few companies today producing U.S. solar cells at a commercial scale, affirming its role in the ongoing effort to bolster the domestic solar ecosystem.

Pioneering Proven Technologies

Built on PERC technology, ES Foundry's production capabilities enable a seamless integration for developers and panel manufacturers aiming for compliance with domestic content laws. Alex Zhu, CEO of ES Foundry, emphasizes that their focus on scalable PERC technology is empowering U.S. developers to build their projects with confidence. As alternative technologies remain embroiled in international patent disputes, ES Foundry is committed to providing immediate solutions.

In a statement reflecting on 2025’s accomplishments, Zhu expressed pride in demonstrating that American solar cell production is both viable and critical. The company is not resting on its laurels; plans for a 2-GW Phase II expansion at the Greenwood facility are already in motion for 2026, promising to enhance operational efficiency and output.

Collaborative Efforts Yielding Results

Throughout the year, ES Foundry has partnered with major U.S. developers and asset owners to incorporate their FEOC-free crystalline cells into a variety of projects. This collaboration has not only fortified these companies’ eligibility for the IRA's domestic-content bonus but has also significantly reduced their susceptibility to the unpredictabilities of imported components.

Looking forward, the expansion plans are not just about volume but also about reinforcing America's clean energy independence. Every gigawatt produced directly contributes to a sustainable future, pushing the envelope in solar manufacturing.

A Commitment to Clean Energy

As ES Foundry inches closer to becoming one of North America's largest producers of crystalline solar cells, their journey illustrates a broader narrative of resilience and determination in the face of global challenges. The leadership has underscored the idea that their role is to manufacture actively rather than waiting for patents and litigation processes to resolve.

This proactive approach positions ES Foundry as a pivotal player in the U.S. clean energy transition. With a capable team of industry veterans, they deliver reliable and high-quality U.S.-made solar products, aimed at fostering the growth of sustainable energy.

Stay tuned to ES Foundry's updates via LinkedIn and Bluesky as the company continues to make waves in the American solar sector, underlining the importance of local manufacturing to the future of renewable energy.