Reshoring the Solar Supply Chain

“You need the right policy…having the right manufacturing credits.”
Ken Johnston, Vice President of Sales, ES Foundry

In this episode of Good Energy, SEIA hosts Ken Johnston, Vice President of Sales of US solar cell manufacturer ES Foundry. Johnston discussed the opening of a solar manufacturing facility in the United States, his key points when speaking with members of Congress, and ES Foundry’s plans for the coming years.

ES Foundry recently opened a factory in Greenwood, South Carolina. The factory processes polysilicon wafers into solar cells, the components that transform sunlight into energy. Johnston explains that solar cells are the most complicated part of a solar panel to create.

Johnston discusses how it was difficult to reshore the solar supply chain until Congress passed incentives that jumpstarted solar manufacturing on American soil. In addition to the job creation that sprouts from these incentives, they also help solar developers bring projects to fruition.

Looking to the future, Johnston hopes that ES Foundry can gain a greater share of the American market. The company wants to create a stable product line for its customers and then look to scaling up and advancing technology.

From in-depth interviews with industry leaders to insightful discussions on the rapid growth of solar and storage in the United States, Good Energy connects you with the heartbeat of the solar industry. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just curious about the future of energy, tune in to stay informed and inspired about the bright future of solar. Listen to full episodes on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.