Toyo to Establish 2.5-GW Solar Panel Facility in Texas: A Game-Changer for U.S. Solar Manufacturing

In a significant move to bolster its solar manufacturing footprint, Toyo has leased a massive 567,140 ft² facility in Humble, Texas, to develop a 2.5-GW solar panel assembly plant. This strategic step marks Toyo's expansion into the U.S. renewable energy market, complementing its existing operations in Vietnam and Ethiopia.

Toyo’s U.S. Manufacturing Expansion

The facility, previously owned by Solar Plus Technology Texas LLC, was acquired by Toyo as part of a 100% stake purchase in Solar Plus. Equipped with solar panel assembly machinery expected to arrive in early 2025, the plant aims to produce its first gigawatt of solar panels by mid-2025. Toyo plans to scale operations further, with a goal of reaching 6.5 GW production capacity by 2029.

“This acquisition marks a significant step in Toyo’s strategy to establish a manufacturing footprint in the U.S.,” said Junsei Ryu, Chairman and CEO of Toyo. “By acquiring Solar Plus, we will accelerate our development and leverage our team’s proven manufacturing excellence, as well as the extensively established customer relationships and the brand of our sister company Vietnam Sunergy (VSUN).”

Strategic Timing and Location

The decision to expand into the United States comes amidst ongoing antidumping and countervailing duty investigations by the U.S. Department of Commerce targeting Southeast Asian solar panel manufacturers. Toyo's move ensures compliance with local manufacturing incentives while aligning with the growing demand for solar panels in the U.S. market.

Houston, Texas, a hub for energy innovation, provides an ideal location for the facility. With its well-established infrastructure and proximity to key markets, the metro area is poised to support Toyo’s long-term growth.

Accelerating Renewable Energy Goals

This new plant is set to play a pivotal role in the U.S. solar energy supply chain. Toyo’s investment not only creates local jobs but also strengthens the country’s renewable energy capabilities, addressing the growing push for clean energy and reduced dependence on imports.

The Path Ahead

The first production phase at the Humble, Texas, facility is expected to catalyze the growth of domestic solar manufacturing, ensuring a reliable and sustainable supply chain. Toyo’s ambitious plan to expand to 6.5 GW by 2029 underscores its commitment to innovation and leadership in the renewable energy sector.