T1 Energy starts preconstruction on 5 GW solar cell plant in Texas

T1 Energy Inc., a US-based solar technology company, has begun preconstruction work on its $850 million G2_Austin solar cell facility in Milam County, Texas. The 5GW TOPCon facility is scheduled to begin production by the end of 2026 and is expected to generate up to 1,800 full-time jobs. Yates Construction has been selected for site preparation, while SSOE Group has provided engineering services since December 2024. The project complements T1 Energy’s operational G1_Dallas 5GW solar module plant and supports its strategy to build a domestic solar and battery supply chain. The facility has secured a local tax abatement, conditional on investment and employment thresholds. According to T1 Energy, the project aligns with federal policies promoting US clean energy manufacturing. Earlier this year, T1 Energy and Manaar Gulf signed a non-binding agreement to bring Gulf investment into G2_Austin.