As a major producer of cadmium telluride thin-film solar technology, First Solar operates around 23.5?GW of active manufacturing capacity globally, with an increasing share in the US. Following the ramp-up of its new factories in Alabama and Louisiana, the company expects to operate about 11?GW of domestic capacity, rising to more than 14?GW by the end of 2026. This reinforces its position as the largest US solar manufacturer.
The company reported over 2.7?GW of gross bookings in the third quarter, with a total backlog of 54.5?GW through 2030. During the quarter, First Solar produced 3.6?GW of modules globally, including 2.5?GW in the US and 1.1?GW internationally. Following the Oct.?30 earnings call, First Solar’s share price rose more than 15%.
First Solar emphasized that its products are largely insulated from major trade policy risks, including compliance with foreign entity of concern restrictions. Its modules are expected to qualify for the domestic content bonus, which provides an additional 10% tax credit on top of the 30% base investment tax credit available to solar developers.
Mark Widmar, CEO of First Solar, stated: “While trade and policy developments have introduced new challenges for many in our industry, we continue to differentiate ourselves by offering pricing and delivery certainty, enabling us to respond effectively to evolving demand drivers and reinforce our leadership.”
The company reaffirmed its 2025 net sales guidance, projecting revenue between $4.95?billion and $5.2?billion for the year. Widmar added: “As a result of our disciplined approach to balancing growth, liquidity, and profitability, we’ve further strengthened our position through the commissioning of our fifth US manufacturing facility, enhancing our liquidity position, and delivering record sales.”
The new facility in the US aligns with First Solar’s strategy to expand domestic production capacity while meeting increasing demand for renewable energy solutions. With ongoing investments in technology, supply chain, and production scale, the company is poised to support both the domestic and international solar markets effectively.
By increasing US-based manufacturing and maintaining global capacity, First Solar aims to provide reliable, scalable, and high-quality solar modules for developers, while remaining compliant with evolving policy incentives and maximizing the benefits of domestic content provisions. This expansion underscores First Solar’s leadership in the thin-film solar industry and its commitment to accelerating clean energy adoption.
The company continues to focus on balancing growth and operational efficiency, leveraging its manufacturing footprint and technological expertise to meet future demand and support sustainable energy deployment across the United States and worldwide.
