The largest solar energy manufacturer in the Western Hemisphere, First Solar, announces plans to build a one-point-one billion dollar solar panel manufacturing facility in Iberia Parish. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the facility will employ 700 workers. He says it’s a huge win for the state and the country.
“Previously a lot of the panels would come in from overseas, now we are going to have U.S. production of these panels in a big way,” said Pierson.
First Solar CEO Mark Widmar says Louisiana’s ability to deliver the talent stood out as they looked for a location to build this manufacturing facility. Pierson says they are also impressed with University of Louisiana at Lafayette’s solar energy lab.
“Which has an advanced solar program there, so that caught their eye as well,” said Pierson.
Pierson says the Acadiana facility will be built on an LED Certified Site, meaning it has gone through extensive due diligence and studies to be declared development ready.
“The company is green lighted and wants us to move as quickly as we can get our engineering and permitting together, again that’s why they chose a sight that was shovel ready,” said Pierson.
Pierson says First Solar’s selection of Iberia Parish for its newest solar panel production facility leaves no doubt that Louisiana is leading the global energy transition.
“Not away from oil and gas, we retain our strength there, but we add to it with solar, wind and continue to dominate in the energy sector,” said Pierson.
The project is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026.
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