Tesla Explores U.S. Sites to Accelerate Domestic Solar Cell Manufacturing
In a significant move to reshape the American renewable energy landscape, Tesla is actively exploring locations across the United States for a massive expansion of its solar manufacturing capabilities. This initiative is driven by CEO Elon Musk’s ambitious goal to establish 100 gigawatts (GW) of domestic solar production capacity, a target that would fundamentally alter the nation’s reliance on foreign supply chains.
The 100 GW Challenge for Tesla solar cell manufacturing
Recent job postings and social media updates from senior Tesla executives confirm the company is moving forward with an aggressive strategy to build a 100 GW solar manufacturing facility from raw materials in the U.S. by the end of 2028. This goal is monumental, especially when compared to the current domestic capacity. The U.S. currently has the ability to produce around 65 GW of solar modules, but only a fraction of that—a mere 3.2 GW—for solar cells, the critical components that convert sunlight into electricity.
The vast majority of solar cell production is dominated by China, making Tesla’s plan a direct challenge to the existing global supply chain and a major step toward U.S. energy independence. To achieve this, the company has initiated a significant hiring surge for engineers and scientists tasked with solving the complex challenges of scaling this level of production.
The Search for a Home: Potential Sites Emerge for Tesla solar cell manufacturing
While no official announcements have been made, reports indicate that Tesla is evaluating multiple U.S. sites for this new venture. Key locations under consideration include a potential expansion of its existing facility in Buffalo, New York, as well as the possibility of building entirely new plants in other parts of New York state or in Arizona.
The Buffalo plant, acquired through the 2016 purchase of SolarCity, has a complex history. Originally intended for large-scale solar production with partner Panasonic, the facility has since pivoted to manufacturing Supercharger components and a limited number of Solar Roof tiles after Panasonic’s exit in 2020. An expansion there could leverage existing infrastructure, while a new site would offer a clean slate for a state-of-the-art facility. However, a spokesperson for New York’s economic development agency noted that they have not yet had any engagement with Tesla on this specific expansion, indicating that the search is likely still in its early stages.
A Renewed Focus on Tesla solar cell manufacturing
This renewed push into solar manufacturing aligns with Musk’s broader vision for a sustainable energy future. He has emphasized that the combination of solar generation and battery storage is essential for expanding the electrical grid to meet the surging energy demands of artificial intelligence and the broader electrification of the economy.
Senior Tesla executives, including Seth Winger, senior manager for solar products engineering, and Ralf Gomm, Director of Engineering, have been vocal about the hiring push, highlighting the company’s commitment to advancing U.S. renewable energy. This strategic pivot comes as Tesla navigates a slowing electric vehicle market, signaling a diversification of its capital spending priorities to include solar, AI infrastructure, and robotics.
As Tesla evaluates its options, the industry watches closely. The choice of a location and the successful execution of this 100 GW plan could not only redefine Tesla’s role in the energy sector but also mark a pivotal moment in America’s journey toward a self-sufficient, clean energy future.