First Solar Opens $330M South Carolina Plant, Targets 3.4 GW Capacity by 2027

Author : solar bazaar | Published On : 02 Nov 2026

U.S. solar manufacturer First Solar has officially inaugurated the first phase of its new $330 million manufacturing facility in Gaffney, Cherokee County, South Carolina. The state-of-the-art plant expands domestic utility-scale solar production while strengthening the U.S. clean energy supply chain.

1. Expanding U.S. Solar Manufacturing

The new Gaffney facility serves as First Solar's sixth manufacturing location in the United States, bringing the final finishing and production of its Series 6 Plus solar modules directly onto U.S. soil.

• Current Operations: The first phase is currently operational with approximately 500 manufacturing employees.

• 2027 Capacity Target: Upon completion of its second phase by mid-2027, the facility is projected to double its annual output capacity to 3.4 GW while creating nearly 700 local jobs.

2. Independent, Domestic Supply Chains

Unlike traditional crystalline silicon solar panels, First Solar’s thin-film module technology was researched and developed in U.S. laboratories and does not rely on Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains. The expansion reflects a growing national momentum toward energy independence and secure domestic production.

3. Economic Impact in Cherokee County

The $330 million capital investment brings significant economic growth to the region. Manufacturing personnel at the Gaffney site earn an average annual compensation of roughly $74,000—nearly double Cherokee County’s per-capita income—delivering substantial direct and indirect benefits to local small businesses.