The governor’s office announced that a $1.1 billion plant will be constructed in southwest Louisiana by the largest manufacturer of solar energy in the Western Hemisphere.
In a news release on Thursday, Edwards’ office stated that the First Solar plant will be situated at the Acadiana Regional Airport in Iberia Parish. According to officials, the project is anticipated to generate at least $40 million in payroll annually while adding around 700 jobs. Gov. John Bel Edwards’ office claimed that First Solar’s decision to locate its newest solar panel manufacturing facility in Iberia Parish “leaves no doubt that Louisiana is leading the global energy transition and creating good-paying jobs as a result.” It is unmistakable evidence that Louisiana’s “all-of-the-above” strategy for energy is strengthening and diversifying our economy. The facility would produce high-performance photovoltaic solar modules that are anticipated to be constructed entirely of American-made components. In the first half of 2026, the project is anticipated to be finished. “We are happy to partner with Louisiana as we lean into our commitment to producing enduring value for America by expanding our solar manufacturing footprint and the domestic value chains that enable it,” said First Solar Chief Executive Officer Mark Widmar. “Louisiana’s ability to provide the talent we need stood out, thanks to its extensive workforce development initiatives and the presence of academic institutions like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, which now has a top-notch solar energy lab,” said the governor of Louisiana. The state provided a $30 million incentive package to the business that included performance-based subsidies for site development and infrastructural upgrades. The Iberia Economic Development Authority and Iberia Parish have both committed to paying for water and wastewater infrastructure. The project is a “game-changer,” according to M. Larry Richard, president of Iberia Parish, in a news release. Richard stated, “We appreciate First Solar’s significant investment and look forward to welcoming this global company to the country’s energy corridor. First Solar, a well-known American energy technology firm with global operations and eco-friendly solar module suppliers, was founded in 1999. The company stands out among the top 10 solar panel producers in the world since it is the only one with a U.S. headquarters and no Chinese activities.
