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Fort Mill Today
By the People, for the People
Fort Mill School District Responds to Chemical Leak at Nearby Solar Facility
Flint Hill Elementary School closed after second leak in two days at Silfab Solar plant
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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A chemical leak at the Silfab Solar facility in Fort Mill, South Carolina has forced the closure of the nearby Flint Hill Elementary School. This is the second such incident at the solar plant this week, prompting the school district to hold a press conference to address the situation.
Why it matters
Chemical leaks at industrial facilities near schools raise serious concerns about public safety and environmental impact. The repeated nature of these incidents at Silfab Solar has heightened tensions in the community and put pressure on local authorities to ensure proper safety protocols are in place.
The details
Officials confirmed that the latest leak on March 5 involved hydrofluoric acid, though they assured the public that the situation was being contained. The previous leak on March 3 spilled around 300 gallons of potassium hydroxide. In both cases, the school district took precautionary measures by closing Flint Hill Elementary and transporting students to another school for dismissal.
- The first leak occurred on Tuesday, March 3.
- The second leak happened on Thursday, March 5, prompting the school closure.
The players
Flint Hill Elementary School
The elementary school that was closed due to the chemical leak at the nearby Silfab Solar facility.
Silfab Solar
The solar energy company whose facility experienced the chemical leaks that led to the school closure.
York County
The county government that is working with state environmental authorities to investigate the incidents at the Silfab Solar plant.
What’s next
The school district and local authorities will continue to work with Silfab Solar and state environmental agencies to investigate the chemical leaks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
The takeaway
This incident highlights the importance of strict safety protocols and emergency response plans for industrial facilities located near schools and residential areas. The repeated nature of the leaks at Silfab Solar has eroded public trust, and local officials will need to take decisive action to regain the community's confidence.
