T1 Energy Gets 5-Gigawatt US Solar Module Factory From Trina Solar - CleanTechnica

Chinese solar manufacturer Trina Solar has sold a large 5-gigawatt solar module factory in Texas to T1 Energy (formerly FREYR Battery), marking a strategic shift for T1 from battery production to solar power manufacturing. The acquisition, initiated by T1’s board in November 2024 and finalized on December 23, 2025, reflects the growing trend toward domestic manufacturing in critical clean energy sectors amid increasing global protectionism. Trina Solar received $100 million in cash and retained a 17% equity stake in T1 Energy as part of the deal. This move aligns with broader US policy dynamics, including the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which incentivizes domestic clean energy production. Although T1’s original plan to build a large battery factory in Georgia was canceled following political changes, the company has remained committed to US-based clean energy manufacturing by pivoting to solar modules. The transaction underscores the importance of localized production of solar panels and batteries in the evolving global energy market