Qcells’ Solar Manufacturing Investments Bring Economic Boost to Georgia

Qcells, a leading provider of clean energy solutions, has unveiled new data showcasing the significant economic benefits of its solar manufacturing investments in Georgia. According to a report from the Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development, Qcells’ manufacturing operations in Georgia are generating substantial economic impacts annually:

• Estimated Direct Jobs: 3,800 jobs in Bartow and Whitfield Counties.
• Estimated Total Employment: 6,755 jobs in Bartow and Whitfield Counties.
• Total Potential Sales/Output: Exceeding $2 billion in Bartow and Whitfield Counties.

These figures underscore Qcells’ commitment to U.S. manufacturing and its growing presence in Georgia. The company’s ambitious $2.5 billion investment, announced in January 2023, has led to the expansion of its operations in Dalton and the construction of a fully integrated solar supply chain in Cartersville.

Qcells recently completed the expansion of its Dalton factory, creating 510 additional clean energy jobs. Furthermore, the company has initiated solar panel manufacturing at its Cartersville facility, with completion expected by the end of 2024. Once operational, the Cartersville facility will contribute to a full silicon-based solar supply chain, including ingot, wafer, cell, and finished panel production.

In Georgia alone, Qcells’ annual solar production capacity is projected to reach 8.4 GW, sufficient to power nearly 1.3 million homes annually.

Beyond Georgia, Qcells is onshoring solar manufacturing by investing in the full solar supply chain. This includes reviving a once-dormant factory in Moses Lake, Washington, to produce polysilicon, which will be used in American-made solar panels at the Cartersville facility.

Qcells’ efforts have garnered support from federal and state officials. U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock commend Qcells for its contributions to Georgia’s clean energy economy, emphasizing the importance of American solar manufacturing. Governor Brian Kemp applauds Qcells’ commitment to Georgia and highlights the state’s business-friendly environment. Representative Barry Loudermilk expresses pride in Qcells’ investment and expansion in Georgia.

Qcells’ initiatives align with the Biden Administration’s efforts to support domestic solar manufacturers and strengthen trade enforcement against foreign competitors. As Qcells continues to expand its solar manufacturing capabilities, it remains a key player in advancing the U.S. clean energy economy.