T1 Energy Inc. announced that construction has started on its new solar cell factory, the G2_Austin, in Texas. The company plans to invest between $400 and $425 million in this advanced U.S. manufacturing project, which will help expand the American solar supply chain.
The first phase of the G2_Austin factory will have the ability to produce 2.1 gigawatts (GW) of high-efficiency solar cells each year, with production expected to start by the end of 2026. This phase will be larger than the current U.S. capacity for making silicon-based solar cells.
Supported by pro-growth economic policies from the Trump Administration, T1 Energy’s investment in G2_Austin is part of its commitment to strengthening the U.S. solar manufacturing industry, advancing energy security, as well as creating skilled jobs in the U.S.
Located on 100 acres in Milam County, Texas, the G2_Austin facility is expected to create up to 1,800 new manufacturing jobs. The solar cells made here will be utilized to produce solar modules at T1's existing 5GW G1_Dallas facility. This will help meet the demand for domestically produced solar energy. T1 has also partnered with Hemlock Semiconductor and Corning Inc. in Michigan to source polysilicon and solar wafers, completing the U.S. solar supply chain.
The second phase of the G2 factory could add another 3.2GW of capacity, with potential for expansion if need escalates.
T1 Energy Inc. is an energy solutions provider focused on building a complete U.S. supply chain for solar and battery storage. In December 2024, T1 became one of the leading solar manufacturers in the U.S. with a strategy combining solar and battery storage. The company is based in the U.S. and is also looking to expand operations in Europe.
