First Solar launches 3.3GW solar manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu

American solar technology company First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) has inaugurated its state-of-the-art facility in Tamil Nadu, India, marking the country’s first fully vertically integrated solar manufacturing plant. This significant development was led by Dr T R B Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Promotions and Commerce of the Tamil Nadu Government, and attended by notable figures including the United States Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, and Scott Nathan, CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).

Dr T R B Rajaa lauded the initiative, emphasizing the factory’s role in reinforcing Tamil Nadu as India’s manufacturing hub and supporting the nation’s solar technology self-sufficiency. This sentiment was echoed by Ambassador Eric Garcetti, who highlighted the global push towards renewable energy and India’s role in it, especially post the COP28 call for a transition to cleaner energy.

The $700 million facility, backed by a substantial $500 million DFC financing, is a strategic addition to First Solar’s global operations. It boasts an impressive 3.3 GW annual capacity, directly employing around 1,000 individuals. The facility stands out for producing Series 7 photovoltaic (PV) solar modules, a testament to First Solar’s unique position as the sole US-headquartered company among the world’s largest solar manufacturers. Its tellurium-based semiconductor technology is a significant step away from the conventional Chinese crystalline silicon supply chains.

DFC CEO Scott Nathan spotlighted the venture as an example of leveraging American innovation to diversify global energy supply chains and foster economic growth in India. This development aligns with First Solar’s expansive $4.1 billion manufacturing strategy, which has seen its capacity skyrocket from 6 GW in 2020 to over 16 GW by the end of 2023. The company’s growth trajectory includes new facilities in the US and further expansions in Ohio, Alabama, and Louisiana.

Mark Widmar, CEO of First Solar, remarked on the rapid commissioning of the Tamil Nadu facility as a reflection of India’s supportive policies. He also praised the team’s effort in adapting First Solar’s advanced manufacturing template for the Indian market.

In addition to its advanced technology, First Solar’s facility in Tamil Nadu is also a leader in environmental responsibility. Situated in a region of high water stress, it stands as the world’s first net-zero water withdrawal solar manufacturing facility. This innovative approach includes the use of tertiary treated reverse osmosis water from the city’s sewage treatment plant, ensuring zero wastewater discharge. The factory also houses India’s first solar PV recycling plant, setting a new precedent in the industry for sustainable practices.

First Solar’s commitment to environmental sustainability is further evident in the production of their Series 7 module. These modules are distinguished as the industry’s most eco-efficient, boasting a carbon and water footprint approximately four times lower than that of crystalline silicon solar panels produced in China. The company’s sustainable manufacturing approach uses 50% less energy and only a third of the water than a typical polysilicon module production facility, demonstrating a significant advancement in reducing the environmental impact of solar panel production.

Global Expansion and Future Outlook

With its latest facility in India, First Solar continues to expand its global footprint. This expansion is part of the company’s ambitious $4.1 billion manufacturing strategy, which has seen its operational capacity grow significantly since the start of the decade. The company’s presence now spans four countries, including the US, Malaysia, and Vietnam. By the end of 2023, First Solar expects to have over 16 GW of global nameplate capacity, a substantial increase from the approximately 6 GW operational in 2020.

Looking ahead, First Solar aims to further increase its global annual nameplate capacity to 25 GW by 2026. This expansion includes the commissioning of its third US factory in Ohio and plans for additional facilities in Alabama and Louisiana. Each new factory is expected to contribute significantly to the company’s production capabilities, enhancing First Solar’s position as a global leader in solar technology.

The inauguration of First Solar’s facility in Tamil Nadu is not just a milestone for the company but a significant step forward for the global solar industry. It represents a harmonious blend of technological innovation, sustainable practices, and international collaboration. As the world increasingly turns towards renewable energy sources, First Solar’s commitment to advancing solar technology while minimizing its environmental impact sets a new standard for the industry and contributes to a cleaner, greener future.