First Solar new US facility underpins US solar manufacturing expansion

First Solar

First Solar new US facility plans highlight the company’s confidence in sustained US solar demand and manufacturing growth. The US module producer will start production at the new plant in late 2026, ramping through 2027. As a result, First Solar new US facility strategy strengthens domestic capacity while responding to record sales and a deep project backlog.

Record volumes support First Solar new US facility decision

First Solar saw record third-quarter sales volumes of 5.3GW, up from 3GW a year earlier. The company grew quarterly revenue by 80pc to $1.6bn, driven mainly by higher module volumes sold to third parties. Therefore, the First Solar new US facility arrives on top of strong commercial momentum, not as a speculative bet.

However, near-term guidance reflects some demand and supply friction. First Solar cut its 2025 sales outlook to 16.7-17.4GW after terminating 6.6GW of bookings with BP Solar. The company also faced a temporary glass shortage at its Alabama plant, which reduced expected output. Even so, a contracted backlog of 53.7GW, valued at $16.4bn, underpins visibility for the First Solar new US facility and other expansions.

US capacity ramps while overseas output adjusts

First Solar continued to shift its production footprint toward the US during the quarter. Of the 3.6GW of modules produced, 2.5GW came from US facilities, despite the Alabama disruption. Meanwhile, the Louisiana plant moved slightly ahead of schedule, with qualification runs already started and first shipments expected in the fourth quarter.

The company trimmed production in Malaysia and Vietnam, reflecting lower demand after the BP Solar contract termination. This adjustment frees capacity and capital for higher-value domestic manufacturing, including the First Solar new US facility. As a result, First Solar is progressively aligning its manufacturing base with US policy support for local content and resilient solar supply chains.

Profitability strengthened alongside the operating shifts. Third-quarter profit rose to $456mn, up 33pc year on year, despite input challenges. The combination of robust margins, a long-dated backlog and policy tailwinds provides a solid financial platform to fund the new US plant and future technology upgrades.

The Metalnomist Commentary

First Solar’s latest move confirms that utility-scale solar manufacturing in the US is entering a scale-up phase, not just a reshoring experiment. The First Solar new US facility also illustrates how project cancellations and local bottlenecks can coexist with long-term growth in grid-scale solar demand. For metals and glass suppliers, the company’s deeper US footprint signals sustained structural demand for high-performance materials in North American solar value chains.

Solarcycle Georgia Recycling Plant Strengthens the US Solar Materials Loop

Solarcycle

The Solarcycle Georgia recycling plant marks an important step in building a domestic solar materials loop. Solarcycle has started operations at its new facility in Cedartown, Georgia. The site uses upgraded technology that more than doubles throughput versus earlier systems. As a result, the Solarcycle Georgia recycling plant could become a meaningful part of the US clean energy supply chain.

This project matters because solar waste is becoming a larger industrial issue. More end-of-life panels now need recovery rather than disposal. Solarcycle said the process diverts all material from landfill and recovers about 96pc of panel value. Therefore, the Solarcycle Georgia recycling plant is not just a waste solution. It is also a materials recovery platform.

The recovered materials also carry real industrial value. Silver, copper, aluminum, and glass are all embedded in used solar panels. These inputs matter for manufacturing economics and supply resilience. Consequently, solar panel recycling is becoming more relevant to both sustainability and domestic sourcing.

Solar Panel Recycling Is Moving Toward Industrial Scale

Solar panel recycling is shifting from niche activity toward industrial infrastructure. The Cedartown facility is already processing thousands of panels each week. Solarcycle expects that figure to rise to 1mn panels annually by the end of 2026. As a result, the company is building capacity for scale rather than demonstration.

Full capacity makes the project even more significant. The plant can process up to 5 GW per year of solar panels. That level of throughput places the facility among the more serious recycling assets in the US solar chain. Therefore, the Solarcycle Georgia recycling plant could influence how the market thinks about end-of-life solar economics.

The technology angle also matters. Higher throughput and full landfill diversion improve the commercial case for recycling. Better material recovery can support stronger margins and more stable downstream reuse. Meanwhile, it gives developers and manufacturers a clearer pathway for circularity.

Recycled Solar Glass Could Deepen US Solar Materials Capacity

Recycled solar glass is the next major part of Solarcycle’s strategy. The recycling facility sits next to the company’s planned solar glass manufacturing plant. That plant is expected to break ground in mid-2026 and begin producing glass in 2028. Consequently, Solarcycle is linking recycling directly to new manufacturing capacity.

This integrated model matters for the broader US solar sector. Domestic manufacturing has become more important as buyers seek local supply and policy support favors US production. Solarcycle said it has already secured customer commitments for more than 80pc of the future glass plant’s planned 5 GW capacity. Therefore, demand for recycled and US-made solar materials appears to be strengthening.

The business model also shows a wider industrial trend. Recycling is no longer just about compliance or waste reduction. It is becoming a feedstock strategy for new manufacturing. As a result, the Solarcycle Georgia recycling plant may prove more important as the front end of a circular materials chain than as a stand-alone recycling site.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This project stands out because it connects recycling scale with future manufacturing capacity. Solarcycle is not simply collecting old panels. It is building a domestic solar materials loop that could matter more as US clean energy deployment accelerates.

Rio Tinto expands solar capacity at Kennecott with tellurium-linked panels

Rio Tinto, Solar

Rio Tinto expands solar capacity at Kennecott by adding 25MW of new generation at its Utah copper site. Rio Tinto expands solar capacity at Kennecott on top of a 5MW solar plant completed in 2023. As a result, Rio Tinto expands solar capacity at Kennecott to a total of 30MW, targeting a 6% cut in Scope 2 emissions.

The new solar build started in late 2024 and reached completion in October before it energized in December. Meanwhile, the project ties decarbonization to local byproduct value. The solar plant uses about 71,000 panels that incorporate tellurium produced at Kennecott during copper refining.

How the Kennecott solar project reduces Scope 2 emissions and power risk

The Kennecott solar expansion targets electricity-related emissions that sit in Scope 2 accounting. Therefore, a 30MW on-site solar asset can shave grid exposure and improve emissions intensity. However, solar output varies by season and time of day, so Kennecott still needs grid power or firming solutions for round-the-clock operations.

The construction timeline also shows industrial renewables moving from pilot scale to repeatable deployments. Meanwhile, miners increasingly prioritize projects that deliver measurable emissions cuts without disrupting throughput. This approach supports customer demands for lower-carbon copper supply chains.

Why tellurium matters for photovoltaics and byproduct monetization

Tellurium turns a refining byproduct into a strategic input for thin-film solar technology. As a result, Kennecott links copper refining to downstream clean-energy manufacturing. The material flows from Kennecott to Canadian firm 5N Plus for thin-film semiconductor materials and then to US firm First Solar for panel manufacturing.

This loop strengthens a North American critical materials chain around solar components. However, byproduct markets remain small and price sensitive, so long-term offtake and qualification matter. Therefore, integrating tellurium into a captive use case at the mine site can improve resilience and visibility for both producers and buyers.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This project signals a smarter decarbonization play that also upgrades byproduct strategy. However, the real advantage comes if Rio Tinto pairs renewables with reliability tools like storage and demand management. Mines that connect emissions cuts to critical-material loops will win premium customers.

First Solar Lowers 2024 Guidance Amid Declining Bookings and Production Challenges

US Solar

First Solar, a leading US-based solar module manufacturer, has revised its 2024 guidance downward, reflecting a significant 13% decrease in expected sales volume. The company now anticipates producing between 14.2GW and 14.6GW, a decrease from the previously projected 15.6GW to 16.3GW. This adjustment is largely attributed to waning quarterly bookings and challenges related to manufacturing issues.

Despite the lowered forecast, First Solar’s third-quarter results showed a 17% increase in profits year-over-year, reaching $313 million. The company’s solar module production also reached new heights, with a record-breaking 3.8GW produced during the quarter. However, bookings were down by a stark 88%, with only 0.9GW booked, marking a significant dip due to the company’s selective contracting approach.

Key Factors Behind the Revised Guidance

The primary reason behind the lower guidance is a decline in bookings, which dropped by nearly 90% compared to the same period last year. Mark Widmar, First Solar’s CEO, attributed this slowdown to the company’s highly selective contracting strategy, which limits its order volume but aims to secure more stable, long-term contracts.

Moreover, manufacturing issues have prompted First Solar to set aside funds for a product warranty reserve charge, further impacting the company’s financial outlook for 2024. However, production remains strong, with the Series 6 module manufacturing at 2.6GW—a 4% increase over the previous year—and the Series 7 module seeing over double the production year-over-year at 1.5GW.

Ongoing Expansion and Technological Innovation

Despite the challenges, First Solar continues to push forward with its expansion plans. The company recently began commercial operations at its new 3.5GW/year facility in Alabama, and its Louisiana expansion is on track to begin production in late 2025. These expansions will elevate First Solar’s US production capacity to 14GW/year, with a total global capacity of 25GW/year.

Additionally, the company has made strides in solar technology with the development of CuRe technology, which aims to reduce reliance on copper by using alternative materials for doping. Production of the CuRe product will begin in the fourth quarter of this year, with plans to produce up to 0.4GW through the first quarter of 2025.

Financial Snapshot and Future Outlook

In terms of revenue, First Solar’s third-quarter sales fell by 12% compared to the previous quarter, reaching $888 million, though they saw a 10% increase compared to the same quarter last year. The company has a substantial backlog of 73.3GW, expected to sustain production through 2030, giving it a long-term growth outlook despite current challenges.

While the short-term outlook has been tempered by lower-than-expected bookings, First Solar’s strong production capabilities, strategic expansion, and cutting-edge technology position it well for future growth in the global solar market.

Azur Space Solar Cell Expansion Signals Stronger Demand From the Satellite Market

Azur Space

Azur Space solar cell expansion is set to continue in 2026 as the company targets another major capacity increase. Germany-based Azur Space plans to lift production by 25pc this year. Its parent company, 5N Plus, expects capacity to rise steadily through the second half as investment supports process optimization and automation. As a result, Azur Space solar cell expansion is becoming a clear signal of stronger demand in the satellite supply chain.

This development matters because Azur is already coming off two years of strong growth. The company previously increased capacity by 35pc in 2024 and 30pc in 2025. Another 25pc increase would extend that momentum into a third consecutive year. Therefore, Azur Space solar cell expansion reflects sustained confidence rather than a one-off adjustment.

The timing also fits a broader technology trend. 5N Plus said faster adoption of artificial intelligence is boosting demand from the satellite sector. That suggests the expansion is tied not only to traditional aerospace demand, but also to digital infrastructure growth. Consequently, satellite solar cell demand is gaining support from a wider set of end markets.

Satellite Solar Cell Demand Is Moving Into a New Growth Phase

Satellite solar cell demand is becoming more structurally important as space-based infrastructure expands. More satellites require reliable power systems, and high-performance solar cells remain a core part of that requirement. This makes production scale more valuable for suppliers serving advanced aerospace applications. As a result, Azur Space solar cell expansion could strengthen its position in a market that is becoming more strategic.

Artificial intelligence is adding another layer to that demand story. Growth in AI applications is increasing pressure on data networks, communications systems, and related space assets. That can support more satellite launches and a larger installed base in orbit. Therefore, satellite solar cell demand is now being influenced by digital technology trends as much as by aerospace cycles.

This is important for the wider semiconductor and specialty materials chain. Space-grade solar cells are not bulk commodity products. They require higher performance, tighter manufacturing control, and strong quality consistency. Meanwhile, added automation can help producers scale without compromising technical standards.

5N Plus Semiconductor Strategy Gains More Industrial Depth

5N Plus semiconductor strategy appears to be moving deeper into high-value aerospace markets. The company did not disclose the financial size of the new investment, but it said the plan includes process optimization and additional automation. That suggests management is focusing on efficiency as well as higher output. Consequently, Azur Space solar cell expansion looks like a capacity and productivity story at the same time.

This approach matters because repeated annual expansions can create cumulative competitive advantage. Three years of sustained capacity growth can improve customer confidence, strengthen delivery capability, and widen market share opportunities. Therefore, 5N Plus semiconductor strategy may be shifting from niche participation toward stronger industrial scale.

The broader implication is clear. Space-related demand is no longer isolated from the rest of the technology economy. It is becoming more closely linked to AI, communications, and advanced electronics. As a result, Azur Space solar cell expansion could become one of the more interesting signals of how specialty semiconductor demand is evolving.

The Metalnomist Commentary

This expansion is important because it connects satellite demand with the wider AI infrastructure story. Azur is not only adding output. It is strengthening its role in a part of the supply chain where performance and reliability matter more than simple volume.

Indonesia Solar Energy Transition Gains Momentum with $60mn JETP Support

PLN Indonesia Power

Floating Solar Project in Java Advances Despite U.S. JETP Withdrawal

Indonesia’s solar energy transition has taken a significant step forward, with $60 million in new funding for the Saguling floating solar project. The support comes under the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and involves joint development by PLN Indonesia Power and Saudi-listed Acwa Power. Despite U.S. withdrawal from the JETP earlier in 2025, international backing continues, reinforcing Indonesia’s commitment to phasing out coal.

Multilateral Support Drives Renewable Investment

The Saguling solar project will receive financing from DEG (Germany), Proparco (France), and Standard Chartered, as announced by GFANZ. This adds to the $1.2 billion Indonesia has already secured under the $20 billion JETP framework. France has played a major role, contributing over €450 million ($511 million) in energy transition funding. According to GFANZ, this investment shows strong appetite among both public and private actors to support Indonesia’s solar energy transition.

Coal Dominates, But Solar Begins to Scale

Indonesia still relies on coal for over 61% of electricity, while solar and wind contribute only 0.2%. However, Indonesia holds solar potential of 3,295GW, and projects like Saguling are vital for unlocking that capacity. The Saguling floating solar farm will add 92MWp and reduce carbon emissions by 63,100 t/year. It will increase Indonesia’s solar share by 13%, with renewables projected to rise to 21% of the energy mix by 2030, and 41% by 2040, according to Ember.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Indonesia’s solar energy transition is proving resilient, even amid shifting geopolitical support. The latest JETP-backed investment reaffirms that international climate finance remains a critical pillar in Asia’s coal phase-out.

India's Pahal Solar Expands Solar Module Capacity with New 1 GW/yr Plant

Indian photovoltaic module manufacturer Pahal Solar is gearing up to launch a new 1 GW/yr solar module plant in Olpad, Surat by the end of August. This expansion will boost the company's total production capacity to 1.8 GW/yr.

The new facility's construction is nearing completion, with expectations to finish by late August. Commercial production will begin soon after, a company representative told Metalnomist.

Pahal Solar's current 800 MW/yr plant produces advanced n-type tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) modules and bifacial and mono passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) modules. The new plant will primarily focus on manufacturing TOPCon solar modules, aligning with the industry trend towards this technology.

Indian solar manufacturers are increasingly adopting TOPCon technology due to its higher efficiency and greater energy yield over its lifespan compared to traditional PERC technology. This shift is expected to enhance the performance and reliability of solar modules.

The demand for solar panels in India is projected to rise, driven by the government's strong push for green energy solutions. Solar panels, which require materials like silicon, are a key part of this transition to low-emission energy technologies.

Additionally, Pahal Solar is considering establishing a manufacturing plant in South Africa, although details on the timeline and capacity have yet to be disclosed. This move highlights the company's ambition to expand its global presence in the solar energy market.

By adopting advanced technology and expanding its production capacity, Pahal Solar is set to play a crucial role in supporting India’s renewable energy goals.

First Solar 3.7GW South Carolina module plant lifts US solar manufacturing to 17.7GW by 2027

First Solar

The First Solar 3.7GW South Carolina module plant adds major new US capacity. First Solar will build the facility in Gaffney. The First Solar 3.7GW South Carolina module plant carries a planned $330 million investment. Therefore, it strengthens domestic solar module manufacturing.

The plant should start commercial operations in the second half of next year. The company announced the project after outlining another US plant in October. Meanwhile, developers want stable module supply and shorter delivery timelines. As a result, the First Solar 3.7GW South Carolina module plant supports supply chain resilience.

New capacity raises domestic output to 17.7GW in 2027

The new factory adds 3.7GW of annual module capacity. First Solar expects this expansion to lift domestic capacity to 17.7GW in 2027. However, ramp schedules depend on equipment delivery and workforce training. Therefore, early execution will matter.

This expansion signals continued investment in US solar manufacturing. Companies are rebuilding localized supply lines for utility-scale demand. Meanwhile, buyers increasingly prefer contracted, predictable volumes. As a result, capacity additions can improve pricing stability.

US footprint expands across multiple states

The South Carolina site will join five other US manufacturing facilities. First Solar already operates plants in Ohio, Alabama, and Louisiana. Therefore, the company widens geographic redundancy and logistics options.

More domestic module output can reduce exposure to shipping disruptions. It can also support faster project cycles for developers. Meanwhile, US-based manufacturing can simplify procurement for regulated tenders. As a result, the expansion can improve bankability for long-duration build plans.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Module capacity matters, but reliable ramp execution decides real supply. Meanwhile, US factories will compete on uptime, yields, and delivery certainty. Therefore, buyers should align contracts with commissioning milestones and proven throughput.

5N Plus Poised for Increased Tellurium Orders from First Solar Amid China Export Controls

5N Plus

US Solar Panel Giant May Boost Spot Demand as 5N Plus Expands Non-Chinese Supply and Space Solar Capacity

5N Plus Expects Surge in Tellurium Spot Sales from First Solar

Canadian semiconductor materials producer 5N Plus anticipates additional spot tellurium orders from US-based solar panel leader First Solar, as the latter moves to diversify its supply chain away from China. The shift comes after Beijing imposed new export controls on tellurium, following similar restrictions on gallium and germanium.

First Solar uses cadmium telluride (CdTe) in its thin-film solar panels and partners with 5N Plus to refine tellurium by-product sourced from Rio Tinto’s Kennecott mine in Utah. 5N Plus already has a minimum-volume supply agreement, which was increased by 50% for the next two years, effectively tripling the contract volume compared to 2022.

According to CEO Gervais Jacques, First Solar is “most likely to request more than the minimum,” signaling robust demand as the U.S. seeks to reduce reliance on Chinese critical minerals.

5N Plus Expands Non-Chinese Supply Chains and Space Solar Production

While First Solar evaluates potential disruptions from China’s export policy, 5N Plus has strengthened sourcing of key materials. It procures germanium from Europe and Canada, while maintaining a stable bismuth supply outside of China. These measures are part of a broader strategy to insulate the company from geopolitical supply risks.

Additionally, 5N Plus is scaling up its space solar division, which manufactures advanced germanium substrates used in high-efficiency satellite applications. These substrates are layered with materials such as AlInGaP, AlGaAs, and InGaAs. The company expects this business to grow by 30% in 2024, with capacity expansions ongoing through Q4.

Bismuth Chemicals to See Steady Demand from Health Sector

Beyond semiconductors, 5N Plus projects continued bismuth demand growth driven by pharmaceutical and healthcare markets, in line with global GDP trends. The company’s Lübeck, Germany facility is positioned to support this growth, supplying high-purity bismuth chemicals used in medical applications.

U.S. Finalizes Massive Solar Tariffs, Reshaping Southeast Asia’s Export Landscape

US solar

Commerce Department sets duties as high as 3,400% on solar products from Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia

The U.S. Department of Commerce has concluded a landmark trade investigation by imposing some of the highest anti-dumping and countervailing duties ever recorded on imported solar panels. The decision targets silicon photovoltaic cells and modules from four Southeast Asian nations: Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia.

These duties follow a year-long investigation into allegations that Chinese solar companies, previously subject to tariffs, shifted operations to Southeast Asia in an attempt to bypass U.S. trade regulations. The move is widely regarded as a turning point for the global solar supply chain, with U.S. officials and industry leaders viewing it as a necessary step to restore fair competition.

According to the final determination, some companies—particularly those that failed to comply with the Commerce Department’s requests—will now face duties exceeding 3,400%, an unprecedented figure. For example, four Cambodian firms, including Jintek and ISC, will be subject to this highest tier. In comparison, these same companies were only facing duties of 68% under the preliminary findings issued in October 2024.

On a broader scale, countrywide anti-dumping rates have also surged. Vietnam faces an average rate of 271%, Thailand 111%, and Cambodia 125%. Malaysia, while receiving the lowest general rate—just under 9%—still saw several of its companies slapped with individual duties over 80%, due to non-cooperation during the investigation.

The Commerce Department also imposed steep countervailing duties, which are used to offset the benefits companies receive from government subsidies. Cambodia again ranked highest, with a countrywide rate near 535%, while Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia saw rates of 125%, 264%, and 32%, respectively. The lowest countervailing duty—under 15%—was assigned to Hanwha Q Cells Malaysian subsidiary.

These tariffs are expected to take effect in June 2025, pending the final approval of the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC). In certain cases, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam, duties may apply retroactively if the agencies determine that "critical circumstances" exist—such as import surges meant to beat the implementation timeline.

The ruling stems from a petition filed by the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee, which includes prominent U.S. solar companies like FirstSolar, Mission Solar, and the U.S. arm of Hanwha Q Cells. The coalition argues that Chinese firms exploited a tariff moratorium enacted by President Biden in 2022 to reroute supply chains and avoid penalties, effectively distorting the market.

Tim Brightbill, legal counsel for the petitioner coalition, welcomed the decision. He emphasized that the tariffs represent a major victory for domestic manufacturers and are essential to encouraging long-term investment in the American solar industry. “These duties will go a long way toward protecting U.S. jobs and restoring a level playing field,” Brightbill said.

Industry analysts believe that the tariffs will have a ripple effect on solar deployment in the U.S., at least in the short term. Project developers who rely heavily on low-cost imported modules may face delays or cost increases. However, domestic producers see the ruling as a long overdue reset that prioritizes manufacturing resilience over low-cost imports.

As the global solar sector undergoes this structural shift, all eyes are on how China and Southeast Asian exporters will respond—and how U.S. clean energy goals will adapt to a more protected domestic market.

T1 Energy Plans 5GW Solar Cell Plant in Texas to Strengthen US Supply Chain

T1 Energy

Texas Facility Marks New Phase for US Solar Manufacturing

T1 Energy announced plans to build a 5GW solar cell facility in Texas, aiming to address critical gaps in the US solar supply chain. The $850mn G2_Austin plant is scheduled to start production by late 2026. This project follows T1 Energy’s acquisition of Trina Solar’s US assets in 2024 and a rebranding from Freyr Battery, which abandoned its $2.6bn battery storage project in Georgia.

The new facility will supply cells to the 5GW G1_Dallas module plant, reducing reliance on imports from Asia. Current US solar cell capacity remains just 2GW, compared to 56GW of module production. This imbalance highlights the urgency of building more domestic cell production.

US Tariffs and Technology Drive Expansion

T1 Energy’s Texas project benefits from US tariffs and tax incentives, which encourage domestic solar manufacturing. The US Commerce Department has imposed anti-dumping duties on PV cells from Southeast Asia to counter circumvention of Chinese tariffs. Meanwhile, T1 Energy will adopt high-efficiency TOPCon technology, which uses n-type polysilicon. This move reflects the global shift from older Perc technology toward higher-performing solar cells.

However, tariff uncertainty has caused the company to lower its module production forecast for 2025 to 2.6–3GW, down from 3.4GW. T1 Energy is also holding off on long-term power purchase agreements until cost visibility improves. Despite these challenges, the Austin facility represents a major step toward reshoring solar cell production and securing domestic supply chains.

The Metalnomist Commentary

T1 Energy’s 5GW solar cell project signals a turning point for US clean energy policy, linking tariffs, incentives, and new technology adoption. If executed successfully, this facility could strengthen US energy independence while setting a precedent for integrated solar manufacturing in North America. However, cost pressures and tariff volatility remain significant risks for long-term stability.

First Solar plans 3.7GW module plant in Gaffney

First Solar

First Solar plans 3.7GW module plant in South Carolina to expand US solar manufacturing capacity. The company will build the facility in Gaffney, South Carolina. First Solar plans 3.7GW module plant in South Carolina after it announced another US plant in October. The company expects to invest $330mn and start commercial operations in the second half of next year.

Domestic module capacity accelerates toward 17.7GW in 2027

First Solar is scaling domestic output to match rising utility and corporate demand. The added 3.7GW capacity will lift total US production capacity to 17.7GW in 2027. Meanwhile, the company is building a multi-site manufacturing footprint to improve logistics and resilience. Therefore, the new plant strengthens delivery reliability for long-term solar procurement.

The Gaffney investment also signals confidence in sustained US solar deployment. Manufacturers are prioritising repeatable factory designs and faster ramp schedules. However, execution will depend on hiring, qualification, and stable equipment commissioning. As a result, early operational milestones will shape the market’s confidence in the timeline.

US manufacturing footprint widens across multiple states

First Solar plans 3.7GW module plant in South Carolina to add to five existing US facilities. The company already operates plants in Ohio, Alabama, and Louisiana. Meanwhile, a broader footprint can diversify operational risk and improve regional supply coverage. Therefore, the company can support customers across different grid and project corridors.

This expansion also influences the solar supply chain beyond modules. Domestic output can support faster project cycles when logistics and lead times tighten. However, developers still monitor input costs, permitting, and interconnection delays. As a result, manufacturing expansion works best when grid buildout keeps pace.

The Metalnomist Commentary

US module capacity is shifting from policy ambition to industrial reality. Meanwhile, scale manufacturing can stabilise pricing and shorten delivery times. Therefore, winners will be the firms that ramp reliably and meet bankability standards.

US solar duties on imports: manufacturers target India, Indonesia and Laos

US solar companies

A new petition seeks US solar duties on imports from India, Indonesia and Laos to curb alleged dumping. A coalition of domestic manufacturers filed AD/CVD cases with Commerce and the ITC. They allege Chinese-backed and Indian firms sell below fair value with illegal subsidies. As a result, US solar duties on imports could expand again after last month’s Southeast Asia tariffs.

Who is behind the push

The Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade leads the petition. Members include First Solar, Mission Solar Energy and Qcells. Previously, the alliance won duties on Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. However, petitioners say producers shifted capacity to Laos and Indonesia. They argue US solar duties on imports must follow those shifts to protect jobs and investments.

The filing targets crystalline silicon PV cells and modules. Petitioners claim antidumping sales under “normal value.” They also cite countervailable subsidies that distort US prices. The first step is an inquiry by Commerce and the ITC. Regulators can then impose provisional tariffs pending final determinations.

How new tariffs could reshape supply chains

New tariffs would raise delivered costs for targeted panels and cells. Meanwhile, they could bolster US factory utilization and planned expansions. Developers may diversify procurement across non-targeted sources to manage risk. As a result, buyers face short-term price volatility and contracting delays.

Trade diversion remains a central concern for policymakers. Petitioners argue enforcement must track ownership and processing routes. Therefore, compliance programs and country-of-origin audits will matter more. Clear guidance on scope will be critical for bankable supply.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Trade policy is steering the solar supply chain as much as technology. If Commerce opens these cases, expect tighter margins and faster localization. Bankable EPCs will hedge with multi-country sourcing while awaiting preliminary duty rates.

Canadian Solar Battery Storage Guidance Jumps 21% on Data Center Demand

Canadian Solar

Canadian Solar battery storage shipments guidance for 2025 surged 21% as the renewable energy company capitalizes on growing demand from data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations. The company now expects utility-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) deliveries to reach 7-9 GWh in 2025, reflecting strong market fundamentals despite challenging industry conditions.

Data Centers Drive Battery Storage Market Growth

Canadian Solar battery storage business benefits from accelerating digitalization trends requiring reliable backup power solutions. Data centers and cryptocurrency mining facilities increasingly demand large-scale energy storage to ensure operational continuity and manage power costs. The company's revised guidance includes approximately 1 GWh designated for its own renewable energy projects.

Meanwhile, Canadian Solar secured a significant contract with Chilean utility Colbún in April. The deal involves supplying a 228MW/912MWh lithium iron phosphate BESS in Chile's Atacama Region. This project demonstrates the company's ability to compete for major utility-scale installations in key Latin American markets.

Industry Headwinds Impact Financial Performance

However, Canadian Solar faces mounting challenges affecting profitability across its operations. Geopolitical uncertainty reduces business visibility while oversupply and fierce competition pressure margins throughout the renewable energy sector. These factors contributed to deteriorating financial results in the first quarter.

Therefore, the company reported a $76.6 million net loss in Q1 2025, contrasting sharply with $36.2 million net income in the prior year period. Seasonally lower BESS sales and trade-related duties further compressed margins during the quarter.

Q2 Recovery Expected Despite Market Pressures

Canadian Solar battery storage shipments totaled 0.8 GWh in Q1 but management expects significant improvement ahead. The company projects 2.4-2.6 GWh in BESS deliveries during the second quarter, indicating strong sequential growth momentum.

As a result, Canadian Solar positions itself to benefit from structural demand growth in energy storage markets. The company's focus on utility-scale projects and strategic partnerships with major utilities supports its optimistic 2025 outlook despite near-term profitability challenges.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Canadian Solar's upgraded BESS guidance reflects the energy storage sector's rapid evolution driven by digital infrastructure expansion and grid modernization needs. While the company navigates challenging market conditions including oversupply and trade tensions, its strategic positioning in high-growth segments like data center storage creates compelling long-term value propositions for investors and industry stakeholders.

US solar import inquiry moves forward after ITC ruling

US solar

The US solar import inquiry will continue after the ITC found reasonable indication of injury. The US solar import inquiry targets crystalline silicon PV cells from India, Indonesia, and Laos. As a result, the US solar import inquiry could trigger antidumping and countervailing duties.

Scope, countries, and claims

Petitions allege dumping and government subsidies that undercut US manufacturers. The case focuses on Chinese-owned operations in Indonesia and Laos, and firms in India. However, the inquiry covers cells, whether or not assembled into modules.

The Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade led the filings. Members include First Solar, Mission Solar Energy, and Qcells. Therefore, the coalition spans thin film and crystalline producers across several states.

Regulators will examine sales below normal value and countervailable subsidies. They will also assess whether imports distort prices and harm domestic capacity. Meanwhile, US producers argue duties are needed to halt a “race to the bottom.”

Timeline, duties, and industry impact

Commerce will issue a preliminary countervailing ruling by 13 October. It will follow with a preliminary antidumping ruling on 26 December. Final determinations will come in 2026, after additional investigations.

Potential remedies include countervailing and separate antidumping duties. These measures could raise import costs from the three countries. As a result, developers may face higher module prices and tighter supply.

US buyers have leaned on Asia to meet project timelines. However, policy shifts continue to reshape sourcing and build-out plans. Therefore, procurement strategies must hedge duty risk and tax incentive deadlines.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Trade risk is back at the center of US solar procurement. Watch preliminary rates in October and December, which will steer 2026 contract pricing. Developers should diversify suppliers and sync interconnection milestones with SMART-style or IRA timelines.

U.S. Solar Power Hits Record Growth in 2024 Despite Policy Uncertainty

Wood Mackenzie

Utility-scale solar leads capacity surge as residential segment contracts; industry braces for regulatory headwinds in 2025.

The U.S. solar sector added nearly 50,000 MWdc of capacity in 2024, setting a new record and growing 21% year-over-year, according to a joint report by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and Wood Mackenzie. Solar energy accounted for 66% of all new power generation, surpassing its previous high of 56% set in 2023.

This marks the fourth consecutive year solar has held the largest share of new U.S. generation, driven by Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) incentives, resilient supply chains, and strong demand from utilities and corporations.

Utility-Scale Leads Surge, But Residential Slumps

Utility-scale solar led the boom, adding 41,100 MWdc—a 33% increase from 2023. However, 2025 may see a 2% contraction in this segment due to policy uncertainty.

The residential solar market declined 31% to 4,700 MWdc, hit by high financing costs and lower demand. Still, 9% growth is expected in 2025, especially in California, where market stabilization is underway.

Commercial installations rose 8% to 2,100 MWdc, fueled by projects under California’s NEM 2.0, but are expected to drop 11% in 2025. Developers face federal compliance hurdles related to wage and apprenticeship rules tied to tax credits.

Growth in Community Solar, But Headwinds Ahead

Community solar jumped 35% to nearly 1,750 MWdc, though 2025 growth could fall 15% due to interconnection issues and saturation in mature states.

While demand remains strong, looming policy risks threaten momentum. These include:

• Tariff hikes on Canadian and Mexican imports set for April 2

• A 60-day freeze on permitting for federal land projects

• A shift in federal focus toward thermal and hydro energy

Despite these risks, SEIA and Wood Mackenzie forecast a minimum of 43,000 MWdc per year through 2035, pushing cumulative capacity beyond 730,000 MWdc. However, that pace could slow by 25% if key IRA tax incentives are removed or diluted.

Chinese PV Industry Faces Overcapacity and Profit Losses: IEA Reports

Iea(The International Energy Agency)

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has issued a concerning report highlighting the overcapacity and declining profitability in China’s photovoltaic (PV) industry, which is the dominant force in the global solar energy supply chain. The report, presented during a webinar this Thursday, sheds light on the financial struggles faced by major Chinese manufacturers such as JA Solar Technology and LONGi Green Energy Technology, which have reported significant losses in their recent financial statements.

According to Izumi Kaizuka, an analyst at the IEA, the mood at the 17th SNEC PV conference in Shanghai this June was grim. Kaizuka quoted the founder of GCL Group, a major PV manufacturer, who expressed concern that the Chinese PV industry is "entering an ice age" due to a severe imbalance in supply and demand. The report also highlighted the bankruptcy of Zhejiang Akcome, one of China’s leading PV manufacturers, earlier this year, with the IEA predicting more closures in the near future.

China's Dominance in Global PV Production

Despite the struggles at home, China continues to dominate the global PV industry. In 2023, China accounted for more than half of the 456GW of global solar power capacity added, and nine of the top 10 PV suppliers in the first half of 2024 were Chinese-owned. The country has increased its production share across all segments of the PV supply chain, including polysilicon, crystalline silicon wafers, solar cells, and PV modules, with its share reaching 92%, 98%, 92%, and 85%, respectively, in 2023.

The rapid expansion of China’s PV capacity is evident, with the country increasing its own year-on-year solar additions by 123% from 2022 to 2023, followed by Italy (113%) and Germany (109%). However, the global demand for PV capacity is pushing countries like the EU and the US to expand their own solar production capabilities, with the EU installing over 56GW in 2023 alone.

The EU's Push for Solar Manufacturing

In response to its growing reliance on Chinese imports, the European Union (EU) has set ambitious targets to scale up domestic production of PV panels. Under the Net-Zero Industry Act, the EU aims to produce at least 40% of its annual needs for strategic net-zero technologies—including solar panels—by 2030. With current production at under 5GW annually, the EU is planning to ramp up its manufacturing capacity to 30GW per year by 2030 in order to meet its renewable energy goals.

As the global PV market faces challenges like overcapacity and supply-demand imbalances, the role of China in driving production and the EU’s efforts to boost its domestic capabilities will shape the future of the solar industry.

Bismuth Tellurium PV Demand Growth Driven by Solar Technology Expansion

Bismuth

Bismuth tellurium PV demand faces divergent growth trajectories as photovoltaic industry expansion supports bismuth consumption while trade conflicts constrain tellurium market development. The bismuth tellurium PV sector dynamics were highlighted at the 2025 China bismuth and tellurium development forum in Chenzhou, where industry experts analyzed critical materials supply chains for emerging solar technologies.

Bismuth Consumption Accelerates Through HJT Solar Battery Growth

Bismuth tellurium PV applications demonstrate strong growth potential, particularly in heterojunction (HJT) solar battery manufacturing. Global bismuth consumption reached 18,000-19,000 tonnes in 2024, with China representing approximately 40% at 6,600-6,800 tonnes according to Vital Technology Group. The HJT battery technology combines crystalline silicon advantages with thin film capabilities, requiring bismuth-based low-temperature welding materials.

Meanwhile, global HJT cell shipments surged from 4 GW in 2022 to 25 GW in 2024. Demand for low-temperature welding materials increased correspondingly from 2,000 tonnes in 2022 to 10,000 tonnes in 2024. Industry projections indicate HJT shipments will reach 80 GW in 2025, requiring 30,000 tonnes of specialized welding materials containing bismuth.

Tellurium Market Faces Trade-Related Headwinds

However, tellurium consumption encounters challenges despite growing photovoltaic industry demand. China dominates global tellurium production with 803 tonnes in 2024, representing 68% of worldwide output totaling 1,179 tonnes. The metal finds primary application in cadmium-telluride (Cd-Te) thin-film solar modules, consuming approximately 130 tonnes per gigawatt of production capacity.

Therefore, trade tensions between China and the US create uncertainty for tellurium demand growth. Major US manufacturer First Solar reduced sales guidance from 18-20 GW to 15.5-19.3 GW in April, citing trade uncertainty and higher tariffs imposed since President Trump's February inauguration. This guidance reduction directly impacts global Cd-Te consumption projections for 2025.

Building-Integrated PV Creates New Demand Channels

Furthermore, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) applications present emerging growth opportunities for both critical minerals. China plans significant BIPV capacity expansion, potentially increasing tellurium utilization according to China Triumph representatives. Global Cd-Te thin-film solar cell output reached 16 GW in 2024, indicating 2,080 tonnes of Cd-Te demand for absorption layer applications.

As a result, bismuth benefits from diversified application portfolios including automobile glass ink (19% of consumption), pigments (13%), catalysts (8%), and pharmaceuticals (8%). This diversification provides stability compared to tellurium's concentrated dependence on solar module manufacturing, which remains vulnerable to geopolitical trade disruptions affecting major consuming markets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The contrasting trajectories of bismuth and tellurium in photovoltaic applications highlight how trade policies increasingly influence critical minerals demand patterns beyond traditional supply-side considerations. While technological advancement drives fundamental growth in both materials, tellurium's concentrated exposure to US-China trade tensions demonstrates the vulnerability of specialized critical minerals to geopolitical disruptions in key end-use sectors.

US Imposes Tariffs on Solar Imports from Four Asian Countries

US Solar

The U.S. Department of Commerce has imposed new duties on solar products imported from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. The preliminary ruling, announced on Tuesday, claims that manufacturers in these countries have benefited from subsidies that allow them to undercut U.S. companies, thereby disrupting fair competition. The tariffs target crystalline silicon photovoltaic cells and modules, with rates ranging from less than 1% to nearly 293%, depending on the individual companies and their responses to Commerce’s inquiries.

Tariffs Range Widely, Affecting Industry Dynamics

U.S. Customs and Border Protection will now begin collecting cash deposits from importers to match the preliminary subsidy rates. The baseline rates are set as low as 2.85% for Vietnamese imports and as high as 23.06% for those from Thailand, but individual companies could face much higher tariffs if found to be "non-responsive" to Commerce’s investigation. These duties are retroactive by 90 days, adding pressure to the affected importers.

This action stems from a petition filed by the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing Trade Committee, a coalition of U.S. solar companies including FirstSolar, Mission Solar Energy, and Hanwha Q Cells. The group alleged that Chinese companies have been circumventing U.S. trade law by setting up production in Southeast Asia, exporting large volumes of subsidized solar products to the U.S. under the guise of local manufacturing. This allowed these companies to avoid duties imposed by previous investigations, leading to what the coalition claims is a distortion of the U.S. market.

In 2022, President Biden temporarily paused new duties from a related investigation to mitigate disruption in the U.S. solar market. However, critics argue that this gave Chinese companies an opportunity to shift their supply chains to Southeast Asia. Tim Brightbill, lead counsel for the coalition, expects the preliminary rates to rise as Commerce gathers more data from affected companies. "We are confident that the duty rates will increase as Commerce continues to investigate newly alleged subsidies," he said.

Industry Divided on the Impact of New Tariffs

The decision has sparked a debate within the U.S. clean energy sector. While manufacturers like FirstSolar support the tariffs as a means to protect domestic industry, other trade groups, such as the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) and the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE), warn that the tariffs could hinder the country’s decarbonization efforts. ACORE CEO Ray Long emphasized the need for a balanced approach, stating, "What America's clean energy sector needs right now is a balanced trade policy that sustains the progress we're making deploying clean energy and ramping up domestic manufacturing capabilities."

Commerce is set to release a preliminary antidumping determination on November 27, which could further affect the industry landscape. Petitioners have requested that Commerce issue final determinations on both countervailing and antidumping duties simultaneously, which would potentially arrive by April 11, 2025. Without joint issuance, a separate determination on countervailing duties could come as soon as February 10, 2025.

First Solar Secures US TOPCon Patent

US-based solar module manufacturer First Solar has successfully obtained a US patent for its solar cell production technology, paving the way for an investigation into potential patent infringements.

The company announced today that it has acquired patents for the Tunner Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) cells, which utilize crystalline-silicon (c-Si) photovoltaic (PV) technology, following its acquisition of TetraSun in 2013.

With this patent acquisition, First Solar has launched an investigation into c-Si solar manufacturers to identify any possible infringement of its patents, which are issued in the US, Mexico, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, and Australia. The probe also covers pending patent applications in the EU and Japan.

First Solar is known for producing thin-film cadmium-telluride (CdTe)-based photovoltaic modules, a crucial element in advancing solar energy technology and the broader energy transition.