Suniva announced that it will open its second monocrystalline silicon solar cell manufacturing plant in the United States. The company has reached an agreement to build a 4.5 gigawatt factory in Lawrence, South Carolina, expected to open in the second quarter of 2027. The factory will work together with Suniva's existing 1-gigawatt manufacturing plant on the outskirts of Atlanta to increase the company's total domestic manufacturing capacity to 5.5 gigawatts per year.

Suniva has long defended the United States' leadership position in solar manufacturing. Solar energy is the fastest and most economical way to increase our country's energy supply, "said Tony Etnyre, CEO of Suniva. Our expansion means that domestically produced renewable energy will ensure America's energy future more than ever before. We are proud to collaborate with South Carolina on this important initiative

Suniva has experienced a roller coaster ride in the US solar market. The company was founded in 2007 and is the largest manufacturer of dual solar cells and panels in the United States. Suniva suspended operations in 2017 due to high prices of foreign imported products, and subsequently restarted its silicon cell manufacturing business in Georgia at the end of 2024.

Suniva will invest $350 million to build a 620000 foot 2 Laurens factory, which will create over 550 job opportunities.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster said, "With 564 new jobs added in advanced manufacturing and energy, Suniva's decision to root in Palm State will create new opportunities for our workforce. This investment strengthens our commitment to innovative energy solutions, and we are proud to welcome Suniva to Lawrence County. ”

30 miles south of the Lawrence factory is ES Foundry's 3 gigawatt silicon solar manufacturing plant, which is currently the largest battery manufacturing plant in the country. Once Suniva's new factory opens, the company will be regarded as the largest silicon battery manufacturer in the United States.