First Solar to build 1.2-GW module factory in Ohio

First Solar Inc (NASDAQ:FSLR) on Thursday announced plans for the construction of a 1.2-GW solar module factory in Lake Township, Ohio, envisaging a capital investment of USD 400 million (EUR 330.4m).

US thin-film solar modules maker said the plant will be located in proximity to its Perrysburg site, having a production capacity of 600 MW, and will manufacture its Series 6 modules. It expects to initiate construction in the middle of this year with the goal of reaching full production in late 2019.

“Strong demand in the US for advanced solar technology, along with recent changes in US corporate tax policies, have encouraged our decision to grow First Solar’s US production operations,” said Mike Koralewski, First Solar’s senior vice president of global manufacturing.

Around 500 new jobs will be created as part of First Solar’s expansion with the new site, the company said. The project is awaiting confirmation of state and local incentive packages.

Depending on demand, First Solar can further expand its manufacturing capabilities in the future, the company said. In February, it restarted two production lines at the Perrysburg factory, which mainly produced Series 6 modules, due to strong bookings for its Series 4 panels.

In 2017, First Solar registered record net bookings of 7.7 GW in direct current (DC). The company has production plants in the US, Malaysia and Vietnam.

(USD 1.0 = EUR 0.826)

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