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Solar4America Shuts Down Manufacturing Sites in California and South Carolina
Apr 03, 2025
Solar4America’s ambitious plans to establish major solar manufacturing facilities in California and South Carolina have collapsed, with its Sacramento plant shutting down and the South Carolina site never opening. The company, operated by SPI Energy Co. Ltd., has not issued any public statement regarding these closures, while former employees confirm the shutdown.
Initially, SPI announced plans in 2022 to produce solar panels in Sacramento, California, and solar cells in Sumter, South Carolina, expecting to build some of the largest and most advanced solar factories in the U.S. However, after achieving 100 MW in sales in 2023, the company saw a 50% drop in sales in 2024, struggling with payroll, supply, and shipping expenses.
Key Developments:
- Sacramento Facility (California):
- Originally planned to expand to 700 MW capacity.
- Expected to employ 400 workers, but had only 80 left by January 2025.
- Officially shut down on January 29, 2025, following eviction notices.
- Sumter Facility (South Carolina):
- Projected to invest $65.9 million for 2.4 GW solar cell production.
- Planned to produce N-type HJT and TOPCon solar cells.
- Never progressed beyond initial design and equipment deposits.
SPI was reportedly betting on U.S. manufacturing incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to make the business viable and prepare for an initial public offering (IPO). However, the support was insufficient to stabilize operations. The company's stock, once listed on the Nasdaq, was delisted on January 15, 2025, and now trades for less than two cents on the over-the-counter market.
Unpaid wages and possible litigation further complicate SPI's situation, with former employees seeking legal action for outstanding salaries. While there are rumors of a $2 million investment to restart the Sacramento line, no confirmation has emerged.
Solar4America’s collapse underscores the challenges of domestic solar manufacturing amid market volatility, policy shifts, and financial instability.