First Solar Expands Its CdTe Solar Cell Footprint In The US

First Solar, a leading US solar company specializing in cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar cell technology, is expanding its manufacturing footprint in the United States despite challenges in federal energy policy. CdTe solar cells, while generally less efficient than traditional silicon panels, have improved significantly in cost, durability, and efficiency since First Solar’s founding in 1999. Collaborations with the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) have helped First Solar achieve notable milestones, including a reported efficiency of around 19% in 2013 and further advancements toward a 28% efficiency target by 2030. The company has also demonstrated the long-term durability of its CdTe panels, with studies showing retention of over 90% performance after 25 years. In recent developments, First Solar announced the start of construction for a new facility to produce its Series 6 thin-film solar panels, aiming to begin initial operations by late 2025 and reach full production by mid-2027. This