In a landmark move signaling the growing importance of domestic solar manufacturing, T1 Energy has completed a groundbreaking acquisition of a 5-gigawatt solar module factory from Chinese company Trina Solar, located in the heart of Texas.

The transaction, which was initially approved by T1 Energy's board of directors in November 2024, represents a significant milestone in the United States' push towards localized clean energy infrastructure. After a year-long process, Trina Solar officially transferred all assets and equity on December 23, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the renewable energy landscape.

This strategic acquisition comes against the backdrop of increasing global protectionism and a strong push for domestic manufacturing, particularly in critical sectors like solar technology and battery production. Recent presidential administrations, from Trump to Biden, have consistently emphasized the importance of building core manufacturing capabilities within US borders.

As part of the deal, Trina Solar retained a 17% equity stake in T1 Energy and received $100 million in cash, demonstrating a collaborative approach to the transaction. The factory's acquisition follows T1 Energy's previous iteration as FREYR Battery, which had initially planned a battery manufacturing facility in Georgia before shifting its focus to solar power.

The move is heavily influenced by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which provides significant incentives for domestic clean energy manufacturing. This legislation has been instrumental in encouraging companies like T1 Energy to invest in US-based solar infrastructure, potentially reducing dependency on international supply chains.

For T1 Energy, this acquisition represents a strategic pivot and a commitment to contributing to the United States' renewable energy ecosystem. The 5-gigawatt solar module factory will be crucial in meeting the growing demand for domestically produced solar technologies, positioning the company as a key player in the clean energy transition.

Industry experts view this transaction as a positive indicator of the ongoing transformation in global energy manufacturing, with a clear trend towards localized, sustainable production capabilities that can enhance national energy security and support economic growth.