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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Suniva Plans Laurens, South Carolina, Manufacturing, Solar Cell Operations

04/22/2026
Solar manufacturer Suniva, Inc. plans to establish operations in Laurens County, South Carolina. The $350 million project is expected to create 564 jobs.

The investment will include the lease and buildout of a 620,000-square-foot manufacturing facility located at 1200 Commerce Blvd. in Laurens to produce advanced solar cells. Operations are scheduled to begin in 2027.

“Since its founding in 2007, Suniva has championed U.S. leadership in solar energy manufacturing,” said Tony Etnyre, CEO of Suniva. “Our expansion in South Carolina strengthens domestic renewable energy production and helps secure the nation’s energy future.”

To support the project, the Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved job development credits tied to job creation and investment.

“Congratulations to Suniva on establishing its first South Carolina operation,” noted Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce for South Carolina. “This investment is a significant win for rural economic development and reflects the state’s strength in advanced manufacturing.”

Suniva manufactures high-efficiency solar cells, supporting clean energy production and grid infrastructure across the United States.

“By selecting Laurens County, Suniva joins a growing number of manufacturers in Upstate South Carolina helping power the world,” added John Lummus, President and CEO of the Upstate SC Alliance. “We look forward to supporting their growth and the opportunities they bring to the region.”

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