Corning Incorporated recently announced an acceleration of its advanced manufacturing operations in Saginaw County, Mich., to support increasing demand for U.S.-made solar components.
Corning’s new manufacturing facility is expected to create approximately 400 more, high-paying jobs for a total of 1,500. The new $1.5 billion facility will extend Corning’s opportunity in the solar market, building off its leadership position in the manufacture of hyper-pure polysilicon through its ownership of Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC).
“Corning is excited to leverage our advanced manufacturing expertise to deliver top-quality solar components and secure the U.S. energy supply chain,” said AB Ghosh, Corning Vice President and General Manager of Solar Technologies and Chairman and CEO of Hemlock Semiconductor. Ghosh is also the Secretary/Treasurer of the Saginaw Future Inc. Board of Directors.
The company’s increased manufacturing capacity will enable Corning to supply high-quality solar wafers and help strengthen the domestic solar supply chain with industry-leading solar manufacturers. Last month, Corning, Suniva and Heliene announced the only solar module made with polysilicon, wafers, and cells manufactured in the U.S.
Tom Miller Jr., President and CEO of Saginaw Future Inc., expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, ” We are proud to have worked alongside Corning, as well as our local, state, and federal partners, to help bring this transformational project to life. Their expanded commitment is a major win for the region and further validates the strength of our advanced manufacturing sector. Thank you again for your continued support in making projects like this possible.”
Saginaw Future Inc., the county’s economic development organization, played a pivotal role in facilitating this investment. Assistance included coordinating with local governments and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to assemble the incentive package and support infrastructure development. This development is anticipated to bolster Michigan’s position in the clean energy sector and contribute significantly to the local economy.