A Billion-Dollar Solar Industry Proof-Of-Life Comes To Tennessee

The article highlights recent developments signaling renewed momentum in the U.S. solar industry despite short-term disruptions caused by abrupt federal energy policy changes. A notable advancement is Highland Materials’ plan to build a $1 billion polysilicon manufacturing facility in Tennessee, a state that historically ranks low in solar capacity additions but shows strength in solar manufacturing with 32 manufacturers and over 5,000 solar-related jobs. Tennessee’s Phipps Bend Advanced Manufacturing & Technology Campus, originally developed for nuclear power but never activated, now offers a strategic site with robust power infrastructure and transmission access, making it ideal for large-scale solar manufacturing projects like Highland’s. Additionally, Tennessee hosts Shoals Technologies Group, a growing player in solar electrical components, which supports major manufacturers such as First Solar. First Solar recently launched a $1.1 billion manufacturing facility in Alabama, supported by Shoals’ products. Illuminate USA also demonstrates confidence in the industry’s future by securing a five-year, 15-gigawatt solar glass supply agreement