Area Development
Stion, a California company that produces thin film solar panels, has selected Hattiesburg, Mississippi, for a $500 million facility investment. The company will create 1,000 jobs as part of the project.

"Together, the state of Mississippi, Forrest County, and the city of Hattiesburg offer a business-friendly location with a strong resource base for manufacturing," said Chet Farris, Stion's president and CEO. "We are pleased to partner with them to help increase domestic production of clean energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support the local and national economy."

Mississippi is extending $75 million in loans to Stion through the state's Industry Incentive Financing Revolving Fund. The company is also eligible for clean energy tax incentives and work force training incentives. Local incentives have also been offered.

Stion will produce 110-120 megawatt solar panels in 300,000 square feet of an existing facility.