Ebon Solar to build solar factory in New Mexico

(The Center Square) - A green energy firm from the Northeast plans to make a sizeable investment in New Mexico.

Ebon Solar LLC (Ebon Solar), a Delaware-based U.S. solar cell manufacturing company, will invest $942 million into New Mexico’s solar industry.

“We have succeeded in making New Mexico a global center for advanced energy manufacturing,” New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham said in a statement. “Ebon Solar joins other leading companies in embracing New Mexico’s commitment to renewable energy, its talented, dedicated workforce, and the opportunities we provide for job training and tuition-free college.”

Ebon Solar will construct an 834,000-square-foot solar cell manufacturing facility in the Mesa del Sol industrial development area in Albuquerque, creating over 900 jobs, the release said.

"We are bringing in more opportunities for our families in industries that will help us build a sustainable economy and a sustainable city,” Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller said in the release. “This means more high-paying jobs for locals as Albuquerque continues to become a leader in clean energy.”

Ebon Solar plans to use its New Mexico production complex to develop the advanced manufacturing of solar cells from beginning to end. The investment may utilize state Industrial Revenue Bonds.

The Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA) was a major project management partner during Ebon Solar's market evaluation process, according to the release. That role included "facilitating numerous visits, interviews, and data analysis of the region, as well as site selection support," the release said.

Don Tarry, President and CEO of PNM and the 2024 AREA Board Chair, said the company's expansion aligns with the region's economic development goals.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ebon Solar to the market; it not only represents a significant capital investment and new jobs to the community but aligns with PNM’s sustainability goals,” Tarry said in the release.

District 2 Commissioner Steven Michael Quezada said the Ebon Solar expansion will benefit the local economy.

“We are excited to support Ebon Solar with consideration of their Industrial Revenue Bond application because this is the type of advanced renewable energy manufacturing I want in my district, Bernalillo County, and our state," Quezada said in the release. "This project is also expected to bring over 900 new jobs to central New Mexico, which is a huge win for the region."

Ebon Solar CEO Judy Cai praised New Mexico, saying it has a quality labor pool and pro-renewable energy policies.

“Ebon Solar is proud to be an innovator in technologies that support renewable energy,” Cai said in the release. “The choice of Albuquerque for our investment aligns with our commitment to sustainable innovation, and New Mexico offers abundant solar resources, favorable renewable energy policies, and a dedicated, skilled workforce. These factors enhance Ebon Solar’s capital investment and production capabilities and make the City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, and the State of New Mexico ideal partners as we integrate into the clean energy market.”