Suniva, the largest and oldest U.S. manufacturer of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon solar cells, has announced a multi-year strategic sourcing agreement with Imperial Star Solar, a Texas-based manufacturer of American-made solar PV modules. This partnership, set to begin in the first half of 2025, marks a significant step toward increasing the domestic production of crystalline silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules. Under the agreement, Imperial Star will incorporate Suniva’s U.S.-made solar cells into its modules, making them some of the few crystalline PV modules on the market to feature American-manufactured cells.
This collaboration is particularly important for U.S. developers seeking to meet the Treasury Department’s Domestic Content requirements to secure tax incentives for solar installations. By using solar modules containing Suniva’s domestically produced cells, developers can qualify for the Domestic Content Bonus Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This can apply to both roof- and ground-mounted solar systems, with or without energy storage, offering an opportunity for significant savings and improving project economics.
As the only manufacturer of U.S.-made solar cells, Suniva stands at the forefront of the industry, making its products eligible for the Domestic Content Bonus. This partnership not only provides a competitive edge for developers but also supports the broader goal of strengthening America’s solar supply chain. By sourcing both cells and modules domestically, the partnership helps reduce supply chain risks and ensures the continued growth of the solar market in the U.S.
The collaboration between Imperial Star and Suniva comes at a time when the demand for American-made crystalline PV modules is increasing rapidly. With growing pressure to bolster energy security and reduce reliance on imported components, both companies are positioned to meet this demand by scaling up manufacturing in the U.S. The move is part of a broader effort to promote clean energy and job creation within the country, particularly in Texas, where Imperial Star Solar is headquartered.
Isabella Xu, CEO of Imperial Star Solar, emphasized the significance of this partnership in advancing American solar energy capabilities. “This partnership with Suniva exemplifies Imperial Star Solar’s mission to empower excellence in American solar,” said Xu. “By integrating Suniva’s domestically produced solar cells into our modules, we’re strengthening a U.S. supply chain that prioritizes quality, control, and energy security. Together, we’re creating high-quality jobs for Texans, delivering exceptional customer value, and contributing to America’s energy independence with reliable, American-made solar solutions.”
Suniva CEO Cristiano Amoruso echoed these sentiments, highlighting the mutual vision of both companies. “We are excited to partner with Imperial Star, who shares our vision for a growing and secure United States’ solar PV supply chain,” Amoruso stated. “Suniva continues to lead by doing – building America’s largest and only source of American-made solar cells while proving that bolstering America’s energy security, creating American jobs, and maintaining a vibrant solar industry are highly consistent goals.”
This agreement is not only beneficial for the companies involved but also aligns with the U.S. government’s efforts to promote clean energy and secure domestic manufacturing. By partnering to produce domestically sourced solar cells and modules, Suniva and Imperial Star are helping to meet the growing demand for renewable energy solutions while advancing the United States’ energy security. The collaboration promises to provide U.S. solar developers with an alternative to foreign-manufactured components, making it easier for them to comply with domestic content regulations and take full advantage of the available tax incentives.
The growth of this partnership represents a significant step forward in the development of a robust and self-sustaining solar industry in the U.S. It highlights the potential for U.S.-made solar technology to play a central role in the country’s transition to renewable energy. As the industry continues to scale, Suniva and Imperial Star’s collaboration will contribute to the expansion of American solar manufacturing, fostering job creation and long-term economic growth.
By focusing on quality, reliability, and energy independence, the partnership between Suniva and Imperial Star Solar is setting a new standard for American-made solar solutions. With both companies committed to building a resilient and secure supply chain, the future of U.S. solar energy looks brighter than ever.
