T1 Energy Inc. Advances Solar Cell Production with a New Texas Facility
T1 Energy Inc. (NYSE: TE), a company headquartered in Lysaker, Norway, is expanding its manufacturing footprint into the United States. On 17 December 2025, the company announced that construction has begun on its G2_Austin solar‑cell fabrication plant in Texas, a project that represents an investment of $400 million to $425 million. The first phase of the facility is designed to produce 2.1 GW of annual TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) cell capacity and is slated to start delivering cells shortly thereafter.
The decision to locate the plant in Texas aligns with T1 Energy’s strategy to tap the growing demand for advanced solar components in North America. The new facility will augment the company’s existing production capabilities in Europe and give it a stronger presence in the U.S. market, which has seen a surge in renewable‑energy projects and favorable policy support.
Capital Raising to Support Expansion
Earlier in the month, on 16 December 2025, T1 Energy completed a capital‑raising round that involved the issuance of $322 million in shares and convertible bonds. This infusion of liquidity will fund the Texas construction and provide working capital for ongoing operations. The move underscores the company’s confidence in the long‑term growth trajectory of the solar‑cell market and its commitment to scaling production to meet global demand.
Market Context and Company Profile
T1 Energy’s core business revolves around the manufacturing of high‑performance battery cells and energy‑storage solutions, including EV battery cells and stationary storage systems. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and operates within the industrials sector. As of 15 December 2025, the stock closed at $5.44 per share, with a 52‑week range between $0.92 and $7.04. Despite a negative price‑earnings ratio of -3.84, the company’s market cap stands at $1.07 billion, reflecting its position as a niche player in the evolving renewable‑energy supply chain.
The Texas plant will enable T1 Energy to meet the increasing demand for high‑density battery cells suitable for stationary energy storage, electric mobility, and marine applications—markets that are expanding rapidly as utilities and fleet operators transition to cleaner energy sources.
Strategic Implications
By establishing a U.S. manufacturing base, T1 Energy reduces its dependence on European supply chains and mitigates geopolitical risks. The G2_Austin facility also positions the company to take advantage of state incentives and federal programs aimed at boosting domestic renewable‑energy production. Moreover, the plant’s advanced TOPCon technology places T1 Energy at the forefront of solar‑cell efficiency, offering a competitive edge in a market where performance and cost are critical differentiators.
In summary, T1 Energy’s initiation of the Texas solar‑cell fab, supported by a robust capital‑raising effort, marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth strategy. The move not only expands its manufacturing capacity but also strengthens its foothold in the United States—a key market for renewable‑energy technologies.
