The international materials giant Corning has announced the acquisition of JA Solar’s 2 GW photovoltaic module factory in Arizona. The facility is set to operate under the new Corning subsidiary American Panel Solution. Corning has expressed enthusiasm for expanding its solar energy capabilities in Phoenix by leveraging its advanced manufacturing expertise through this new venture.
Plans for the Arizona plant first emerged in February 2023, when JA Solar revealed its intention to establish a 2 GW module project in the state through a newly formed entity, with total investments amounting to around 1.244 billion yuan.
This acquisition comes just weeks after former US President Trump signed a revised bill into law introducing measures impacting the solar industry, particularly Chinese enterprises. Key among these is a provision relating to materials from Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC). Under this rule, businesses may find their access to Production Tax Credits (PTCs) and Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) restricted if they receive material support from prohibited foreign entities that exceeds a specified threshold, which is set to increase year on year.
This acquisition strengthens Corning’s vertically integrated manufacturing footprint in the US, building on previous strategic steps. Last year, the company announced plans to construct a solar wafer manufacturing facility in Michigan, a project expected to secure $900 million in funding alongside potential tax credits.
Earlier this year, Hemlock Semiconductor, another Corning subsidiary and a leading polysilicon producer, was awarded up to 325 million US dollars in funding under the CHIPS Act for commercial manufacturing facilities. This funding is intended to ensure the domestic production of semiconductor-grade polysilicon.
In March, Corning further expanded its US-based solar supply chain by partnering with manufacturers Suniva and Heliene. This collaboration centres on the production of fully American-made modules, with Corning supplying polysilicon and wafers from its Michigan plant, Suniva manufacturing solar cells in Georgia, and Heliene handling the final assembly of the modules.
Corning’s acquisition of JA Solar’s Arizona facility highlights its dedication to strengthening its US manufacturing capabilities in the face of changing regulatory environments, setting the company up to seize opportunities in the domestic solar energy market.
