Image: Corning

Materials science innovator Corning Incorporated has announced the acquisition of JA Solar’s module assembly facility in the U.S. state of Arizona. The plant will now operate under American Panel Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Corning.

“Corning is excited to leverage our advanced manufacturing expertise and expand our solar capabilities in Phoenix, Arizona, with American Panel Solutions,” said AB Ghosh, Vice President and General Manager of Solar at Corning Incorporated, and Chairman and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor. “This facility will manufacture solar modules to serve the demand for reliable, affordable energy in the United States.”

The acquisition reflects Corning’s strategic move to strengthen its vertically integrated solar manufacturing capabilities in the U.S., following its initial announcement of expansion plans in 2023.

This development also marks the second major exit by a Chinese solar company from U.S.-based manufacturing. In 2024, Trina Solar sold its 5 GW module assembly plant in Texas to T1 Energy (formerly Freyr Battery).

The timing of JA Solar’s exit coincides with the recent passage of the U.S. reconciliation bill under President Donald Trump, which includes stricter provisions affecting foreign solar manufacturers. Notably, the legislation introduces Foreign Entities of Concern (FEOC) restrictions. These rules will phase in over time, limiting eligibility for key federal incentives—such as the Production Tax Credit (PTC) and Investment Tax Credit (ITC)—for companies sourcing materials from certain foreign entities.

As regulatory scrutiny tightens, Corning’s investment signals a broader industry trend toward localization and supply chain resilience, positioning the company to play a key role in the domestic energy transition.