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Solar panel manufacturer expands operations to Cherokee County

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The $330 million investment will create 600 jobs.

First Solar, Inc. has plans to expand operations to Cherokee County. The $330 million investment will create 600 jobs.

First Solar, a global leader in solar technology, will establish a production plant in Gaffney. The facility will be among one of the largest solar technology manufacturing and research development footprints in the nation.

First Solar CEO Mark Widmar noted the significance of the investment as the nation experiences historic demand for abundant and affordable energy.

"This investment demonstrates the value of American solar manufacturing and supply chains in unleashing energy dominance while creating jobs and prosperity for local communities, Widmar said."

The Gaffney plant is slated to begin operations in the the second half of 2026 and will onshore final production processes for its Series 6 modules initiated by the company’s international fleet. 

First Solar already operates a distribution center in Duncan, SC and has a longstanding partnership with the state's Inland Port Greer.

Anyone interested in joining the First Solar team should visit the company’s careers page