Suniva Selects Laurens County for First South Carolina Solar Manufacturing Facility

$350 million investment will create 564 new jobs in the state.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:33pm

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A photorealistic studio still-life image of a polished, geometric solar panel component made of brushed aluminum and tempered glass, floating elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background with dramatic lighting and deep shadows, conceptually representing the precision and innovation of Suniva's solar cell manufacturing.Suniva's new solar manufacturing facility in Laurens County, South Carolina, will help strengthen the U.S. solar industry's domestic supply chain and energy independence.Laurens Today

Suniva, Inc., a U.S.-owned and -operated solar cell manufacturer, has announced it will establish its first South Carolina manufacturing facility in Laurens County. The company's $350 million investment will create 564 new jobs.

Why it matters

Suniva's decision to expand its domestic solar cell production capacity in South Carolina is a significant win for the state's growing renewable energy sector. The new facility will bolster the state's position as a hub for advanced energy manufacturing and create hundreds of high-quality jobs in a rural community.

The details

Suniva plans to lease a 620,000 square-foot building located at 1200 Commerce Blvd. in Laurens to produce advanced solar cells. The new manufacturing facility, combined with Suniva's existing plant in Georgia, will allow the company to produce over 5.5GW of solar cells annually, making it one of the largest such capacities in the United States.

  • Suniva announced the new South Carolina facility on April 14, 2026.
  • Operations at the Laurens County facility are expected to begin in 2027.

The players

Suniva, Inc.

A U.S.-owned and -operated solar cell manufacturer founded in 2007 out of research at the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Tony Etnyre

CEO of Suniva.

Henry McMaster

Governor of South Carolina.

Harry M. Lightsey III

Secretary of Commerce for South Carolina.

Jeff Carroll

Chairman of the Laurens County Council.

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What they’re saying

“Since its founding in 2007, Suniva has championed U.S. leadership in solar energy manufacturing. Solar is the fastest and most economical way to grow our nation's energy supply — and at this critical juncture, access to energy will determine how America competes for generations to come. Our expansion in South Carolina means that renewable energy, made right here at home, will now do more than ever to secure that future.”

— Tony Etnyre, CEO, Suniva

“With the addition of 564 jobs in advanced manufacturing and energy, Suniva's decision to put down roots in the Palmetto State will create new opportunities for our workforce. This investment strengthens our commitment to innovative energy solutions, and we are proud to welcome Suniva to Laurens County.”

— Henry McMaster, Governor of South Carolina

“Congratulations to Suniva on establishing its first South Carolina operation. The company's $350 million investment in Laurens County is a significant win for rural economic development, and we look forward to supporting Suniva's presence in our state.”

— Harry M. Lightsey III, Secretary of Commerce, South Carolina

“Laurens County is excited to welcome Suniva and their first South Carolina operation to our community. The investment commitment and job creation are a testament to our business-friendly environment. We look forward to a great partnership with Suniva for many years to come.”

— Jeff Carroll, Chairman, Laurens County Council

What’s next

Individuals interested in joining the Suniva team should visit the company's careers page.

The takeaway

Suniva's decision to establish its first South Carolina manufacturing facility in Laurens County represents a significant investment in the state's growing renewable energy sector. The 564 new jobs created will provide economic opportunities in a rural community and further solidify South Carolina's position as a hub for advanced energy production.