Corning, Suniva & Heliene Launch U.S. Solar Supply Chain
Suniva, the largest and oldest U.S. manufacturer of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells, and Heliene Inc., a leading U.S. solar photovoltaic (PV) module manufacturer, have announced a groundbreaking partnership with Corning Incorporated. This collaboration aims to provide the U.S. market with the only solar module made entirely with polysilicon, wafers, and cells manufactured within the United States. This initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening domestic solar manufacturing and enhancing energy independence.
The foundation of this initiative is Corning’s advanced material expertise. As the primary supplier of wafers and a majority owner of Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC), Corning is sourcing HSC’s hyper-pure polysilicon for this project. Both the wafers and polysilicon are manufactured in Michigan, while Suniva is producing the high-efficiency solar cells in Georgia. This ensures that the solar module consists of American-made components of the highest quality, reinforcing the integrity and sustainability of the supply chain.
A Game-Changer for the U.S. Solar Industry
One of the most notable aspects of this newly developed solar module is its remarkably high domestic content. The solar cell contains up to 66 percent domestic content—the highest percentage available on the market. This offers solar developers a major advantage by making them eligible for the domestic content bonus under the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). The ITC is a key federal incentive that provides financial benefits to solar developers who utilize domestically sourced components, and this new module is set to maximize those benefits.
Industry experts are hailing this partnership as a pivotal moment for the U.S. solar sector. By significantly increasing domestic content in solar modules, the agreement between Suniva, Heliene, and Corning addresses critical concerns regarding supply chain vulnerabilities. The solar industry has long been dependent on imports for essential materials such as wafers and polysilicon, primarily from countries like China. By shifting production to the U.S., this collaboration not only secures supply chains but also promotes job creation and economic growth within the country.
Statements from Industry Leaders
AB Ghosh, Corning Vice President and General Manager of Solar Technologies and Chairman and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor, emphasized the importance of this initiative. “Corning is excited to leverage our advanced manufacturing expertise to deliver top-quality solar components and secure the U.S. energy supply chain. This partnership aligns with our mission to support sustainable energy solutions and strengthen American manufacturing.”
Matt Card, President of Suniva, echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the impact this deal will have on the solar industry. “We are excited that this partnership brings a truly Made-in-America solution to the United States market. Together, our companies offer the only solar cell in the market that provides U.S. developers maximum ITC domestic content advantage—while building a domestic supply chain that provides for American energy independence and a strong manufacturing base.”
Heliene CEO Martin Pochtaruk also highlighted the broader implications of the collaboration. “This partnership is a significant milestone for the U.S. solar industry. By combining our strengths, we are able to deliver not only a high-performance module but also support the domestic economy and American job creation.”
The Impact on Domestic Solar Manufacturing
The solar industry has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by increased demand for renewable energy solutions and supportive federal policies. However, much of the supply chain for solar modules remains overseas, making the industry susceptible to geopolitical risks, tariffs, and supply chain disruptions. This partnership between Suniva, Heliene, and Corning addresses these challenges head-on by ensuring that critical components of solar modules are produced domestically.
The introduction of this American-made solar module is expected to have far-reaching benefits. With the highest level of domestic content on the market, it positions itself as the top choice for developers looking to take full advantage of the ITC bonus. Furthermore, it sets a new precedent for U.S. solar manufacturing, encouraging other companies to follow suit in reshoring their production processes.
Strengthening Energy Independence and Job Creation
One of the primary objectives of this initiative is to bolster U.S. energy independence. The reliance on foreign-manufactured solar components has posed challenges to national energy security, particularly as international trade tensions and supply chain disruptions have increased in recent years. By establishing a fully domestic supply chain, Suniva, Heliene, and Corning are helping to mitigate these risks and reinforce the resilience of the American energy sector.
In addition to enhancing energy security, this initiative is expected to create new job opportunities across multiple states. The manufacturing of wafers and polysilicon in Michigan, coupled with solar cell production in Georgia, will support high-tech manufacturing jobs and contribute to the growth of the clean energy workforce. This aligns with broader national goals of promoting renewable energy industries and transitioning to a more sustainable economy.
Future Outlook for the Solar Industry
The partnership between Suniva, Heliene, and Corning comes at a crucial time for the U.S. solar industry. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law in 2022, has introduced strong incentives for renewable energy production and manufacturing within the United States. This collaboration aligns perfectly with the goals of the IRA, positioning itself as a model for future domestic manufacturing initiatives.
Furthermore, as demand for solar energy continues to rise, the need for reliable and high-quality solar components will become even more critical. By prioritizing domestic manufacturing, this partnership not only meets current market needs but also prepares for future growth in the sector. Industry analysts predict that initiatives like this will encourage further investment in domestic solar manufacturing, paving the way for greater innovation and self-sufficiency in the renewable energy landscape.
