First Solar has launched its latest facility in Tamil Nadu, India, representing the nation’s first fully vertically integrated solar manufacturing plant. The distinguished Chief Guest for the ceremony was T R B Rajaa, the Minister for Industries, Promotions, and Commerce in the Government of Tamil Nadu. Notable attendees in this event, included, Eric Garcetti, the United States Ambassador to India, and Scott Nathan, the CEO of the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
First Solar is a provider of photovoltaic solar energy solutions. With a vision to sustainability and innovation, the company has established manufacturing facilities in India, the United States, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Pioneering a $4.1 billion manufacturing expansion strategy, First Solar aims to achieve 25 GW of global annual nameplate capacity by 2026. Known for its cutting-edge technologies and contributions to clean energy, First Solar continues to play a crucial role in advancing the adoption of solar power on a global scale.
Situated on a six-acre expanse, the Tamil Nadu facility of First Solar, holds a robust annual capacity of 3.3 gigawatts (GW) and employs approximately 1,000 individuals. The manufacturing hub is focused on the production of First Solar’s cutting-edge Series 7 photovoltaic (PV) solar modules. These modules, developed in the United States, have been finely tuned to cater to the specific needs of the Indian market. The establishment incorporates a substantial investment, totaling around $700 million, with a significant portion of $500 million secured through DFC financing.
The Series 7 module, crafted by the facility, is especially notable for being eco-efficiency, marked by carbon and water footprint in stark contrast to crystalline silicon solar panels manufactured in China. The sustainable manufacturing methodology employed by First Solar is characterized by a consumption rate of energy that is 50% lower and water utilization that is only one-third of that observed in an equivalent polysilicon module production facility.
Ambassador Eric Garcetti emphasized the significant impact of the First Solar production facility, highlighting its pivotal role in propelling the worldwide shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources. He expressed that the collaboration between the United States and India, as exemplified by this facility, serves as an example of achievement in fostering enduring climate action. The ambassador had also stressed that the establishment of this production facility not only contributes to the ongoing global transition to cleaner energy but also symbolizes the positive outcomes achievable when nations collaborate in the pursuit of sustainable solutions.
Scott Nathan, the Chief Executive Officer of DFC, commented on the robust nature of the alliance with India, accentuating the growing synergy between the two nations in fostering economic expansion. The CEO emphasized the escalating levels of cooperation that are instrumental in propelling mutual economic growth and development.
Mark Widmar, the Chief Executive Officer of First Solar, has conveyed his satisfaction and commendation for the dedicated efforts of the team members who played a pivotal role in the swift construction and commissioning of the company’s latest facility. This cutting-edge facility, strategically situated in an area characterized by elevated baseline water stress, proudly stands as the global pioneer in solar manufacturing establishments with a net-zero water withdrawal approach. Notably, the facility exclusively relies on meticulously treated reverse osmosis water sourced from the municipal sewage treatment plant, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and innovative water management practices.
First Solar has broadened its international manufacturing presence beyond its facility in India, extending operations to encompass four countries, namely the United States, Malaysia, and Vietnam. This strategic expansion is integral to the company’s manufacturing expansion initiative, which commenced at the beginning of the decade and entails an investment of $4.1 billion. Envisioning a formidable global annual nameplate capacity of 25 GW by the year 2026, First Solar fortifies its position in the renewable energy sector through these diversified manufacturing endeavors.
