NorSun invests $620 million to build solar wafer manufacturing plant in Oklahoma 

NorSun invests $620 million to build solar wafer manufacturing plant in Oklahoma 

July 5, 2024
Construction is expected to begin in 2024, with production starting in 2026. 

NorSun has announced plans to establish its first U.S. facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Norwegian solar energy company will invest $620 million into the project, creating 320 new jobs in the process. According to NorSun, the manufacturing plant will produce 5 GW silicon ingot and solar wafers and help meet increasing demand from U.S. solar cell and panel manufacturers. Construction is expected to begin in 2024, with production starting in 2026. 

What people are saying

In a recent quote, NorSun CEO Erik Løkke-Øwre said, “Our business plan has an ambitious timeline, so we knew we needed a partner who can work fast and efficiently to meet the critical need for American-made energy. Oklahoma impressed us even before our selection journey – its robust clean energy, manufacturing ecosystem and workforce development programs were already on our radar, and its competitive business offerings and site acceleration options solidified our decision.” 

Governor Kevin Stitt added, “I’m proud to welcome NorSun to Oklahoma, and I’m thrilled that Oklahomans will benefit from hundreds of new jobs in the Tulsa area and a $620 million capital investment. Our pro-growth policies, workforce development efforts, and ‘more of everything’ energy approach makes us an incredible state to invest in, and I’m glad NorSun can be a part of it.” 

Manufacturers investing in Oklahoma

GF Central Plastics begins construction on $30 million manufacturing plant in Oklahoma 
When operational, the new facility will house GF Central Plastics’ gas meter fabrication department.

Canoo receives $113 million in incentives to open vehicle manufacturing plants in Oklahoma
As part of the agreement, Canoo will receive payments from the Quality Jobs program and the Quick Action Closing Fund, as well as training support.

ABB consolidates instrumentation manufacturing and expands Oklahoma facility
As part of the consolidation, ABB will close its Warminster, Pennsylvania instrumentation factory in 2025.

Learn more about solar energy

Here Comes the Sun: Manufacturers Share Their Solar Power Journeys
How Hormel Foods and R.A Jones optimized their plants to meet ESG goals and support renewable energy.

The Electric Grid’s ‘Hyper-Complex’ Risk Environment
Insiders know of the decreasing reliability of our electric grid. But you should learn why “grid down” events are becoming more likely, and how to avoid – or even benefit from them.

Microgrids Could Deliver a Short-Term Fix for America's Broken Energy System
A nationwide Smart Grid is at least a decade away.

Investing in American manufacturing in 2024

This map shows where manufacturers are choosing to invest their resources, whether they are building new production facilities or expanding existing plants.

About the Author

Alexis Gajewski | Senior Content Strategist

Alexis Gajewski has over 15 years of experience in the maintenance, reliability, operations, and manufacturing space. She joined Plant Services in 2008 and works to bring readers the news, insight, and information they need to make the right decisions for their plants. Alexis also authors “The Lighter Side of Manufacturing,” a blog that highlights the fun and innovative advances in the industrial sector. 

Sponsored Recommendations

Effective Enclosure Heating

Aug. 22, 2024
Effective enclosure heating is essential for peak operational efficiency in outdoor and indoor contexts.

Busbar: The Next Evolutionary Step in Control Panel Design

Aug. 22, 2024
Learn how busbar power distribution can help control panel manufacturers unlock enhanced safety, lower costs, and a reduced automation footprint.

Reduce Contamination with the Right Enclosure for Your Food and Beverage Application

Aug. 22, 2024
Protecting electrical controls and equipment within food and beverage plants presents unique challenges due to the sanitation requirements of the hygienic environment.

Enclosure Climate Control: Achieving the Ideal Temperature

March 28, 2024
There are several factors to consider when optimizing the climate inside your electrical enclosure. Download this white paper to learn more.