AUSTIN, Texas & NEW YORK — Marking a major step forward for American solar manufacturing, T1 Energy Inc. has selected Yates Construction to begin preconstruction and site prep work for its upcoming $850 million G2_Austin 5 GW Solar Cell Facility. This milestone project is being advanced with strong support from local leaders and federal manufacturing policies.

The facility, located in Milam County, Texas, is a core part of T1 Energy’s strategy to develop a domestic solar and battery supply chain to support national energy independence. In addition to contractor selection, the Milam County commissioners voted unanimously to approve a long-term tax abatement package for the project. The incentive is contingent on the company meeting job creation and capital investment targets.

T1 expects the site to begin producing high-efficiency solar cells by late 2026, generating up to 1,800 full-time jobs.

“Solar energy is a foundational part of American power grids. Our facilities will manufacture solar cells and modules to invigorate our economy with abundant energy,” said Daniel Barcelo, Chairman and CEO of T1 Energy. “We’re excited to work with Yates and Milam County to bring American advanced manufacturing to the heart of Texas and to unlock our most scalable energy resources.”

Yates Construction, a national leader in complex industrial builds, will support early-phase planning and construction, working alongside engineering firm SSOE Group, which joined the project in December 2024.

“We look forward to working with T1 Energy and leveraging our extensive experience in advanced manufacturing facility construction,” said William G. Yates III, President and CEO of Yates Construction. “This is an exciting project, and Yates Construction is committed to being a collaborative partner throughout the execution of the project.”

T1’s expansion builds on the success of its G1_Dallas 5 GW Solar Module Facility, which is already operational and addressing demand for TOPCon solar technology.

Local leaders emphasized the project’s importance for regional development and employment.

“We’re thrilled to welcome T1 Energy to Milam County—this partnership brings not just innovation, but the kind of high-quality, good-paying jobs that empower our local families and strengthen our community,” said Milam County Judge Bill Whitmire. “It’s a powerful step toward a future of sustainable growth and opportunity, right here at home.”

Pending finalization of commercial terms, Yates is expected to become the general contractor for the facility.

Originally reported by Global News Wire.