In a significant stride towards bolstering its renewable energy portfolio, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has recently secured 279MW (dc) of thin-film solar panels from First Solar for the upcoming Lawrence County Solar Project in Alabama. The project, set to commence commercial operation in 2027, underscores TVA's growing commitment to solar energy in the region.
TVA's Vice President of Major Projects, Roger Waldrep, expressed the organization's dedication to investing in a sustainable energy future for the people of the Tennessee Valley. The collaboration with First Solar will enable TVA to integrate more homegrown renewable generation into its overall energy mix, further supporting the region's green initiatives.
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The Lawrence County Solar Project is just one part of First Solar's substantial investment in expanding its manufacturing capabilities in the United States. With an approximate investment of $1.3 billion, First Solar aims to boost its annual nameplate capacity from 6.5GW (dc) to around 10.9GW (dc) by 2026. Part of this expansion includes the construction of a new 3.5GW (dc) facility in Lawrence County, Alabama, which alone accounts for $1.1 billion of the investment. Additionally, the company is also investing $185 million to expand its existing manufacturing footprint in Ohio.
To foster further technological advancements in solar energy, First Solar is set to invest up to $370 million in establishing a dedicated research and development (R&D) innovation center in Perrysburg, Ohio. The center, expected to be completed in 2024, will play a crucial role in driving innovation in solar technology.
The Lawrence County Solar Project, in combination with First Solar's ambitious expansion plans and commitment to R&D, signifies a significant step towards enhancing renewable energy capacities in the United States. As the solar project progresses, TVA and First Solar aim to jointly contribute to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape for the benefit of communities they serve.
