Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 7, Solx, a company with a US-based operation, has announced the establishment of its first solar module manufacturing facility in Puerto Rico. This groundbreaking project will be located in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, with an initial investment of $25 million. The facility is set to begin operations at a site previously occupied by Hewett-Packard. The plant is designed to produce 1 gigawatt (GW) of solar modules, which will cater to the utility-scale market.
The company, Solx, will supply 72-cell n-type modules to this market. Additionally, Solx has plans to expand its operations and introduce residential solar panel manufacturing in 2027. This expansion is part of Solx's strategic growth, with the company aiming to produce high-quality, durable, and high-performing solar modules.
A spokesperson for Solx stated that the facility will also serve as a "turn-key OEM" to a soon-to-be-announced partner. The plant will source steel frames for the modules, which will feature large-format G12 modules. This move reflects Solx's commitment to providing reliable and efficient solar solutions.
Construction of the facility is expected to create more than 200 new jobs, with an estimated total of 600 or more jobs across logistics, supply chain, and supporting industries. The project, which is projected to cost $64 million, is anticipated to significantly boost Puerto Rico's economy, with 100% of the manufacturing processes occurring domestically.
James Holmes, CEO of Solx, emphasized the company's mission to produce modules that are both durable and high-performing, especially for regions with extreme weather conditions. He highlighted the importance of quality in their operations and the confidence in Puerto Rico's ability to lead the national reshoring initiative.
The announcement marks a significant step forward in Puerto Rico's energy transition, as the company invests in domestic manufacturing to support the island's energy needs. The economic impact is expected to be substantial, with the project creating a ripple effect across related industries.
Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González Colón praised Solx for its contribution to the national effort to reshape the economy and provide energy solutions. Her statement underscores the importance of domestic manufacturing in addressing energy demands while fostering economic growth.
In summary, Solx's entry into the solar manufacturing sector in Puerto Rico represents a strategic move to enhance local production, create jobs, and support the island's energy transition. The company's focus on quality and durability aligns with the needs of regions experiencing challenging weather conditions, making this a commendable initiative for Puerto Rico.
