Minnesota’s clean energy and economic development officials highlighted the significance of Heliene’s planned expansion in the state. This Canadian solar manufacturer aims to establish a solar cell manufacturing facility, a move seen as a direct result of federal climate incentives aimed at boosting domestic production. The partnership between Heliene and Premier Energies, an Indian supplier, will not only enhance Minnesota’s role in clean energy but also reflects the growing importance of local manufacturing capabilities.
Past reports have shown fluctuating commitments to U.S. solar cell manufacturing, with several companies retracting plans due to market constraints. However, Heliene’s decision to move forward with its operations, influenced by the Inflation Reduction Act, marks a crucial step forward. This contrasts with earlier hesitations within the industry, highlighting a potential shift in market dynamics and confidence in domestic production. The emphasis on domestic manufacturing is now more pronounced, encouraged by government incentives.
In late July, Heliene announced a joint venture with Premier Energies to create a solar cell manufacturing plant in the Twin Cities. Heliene currently operates a facility in northern Minnesota that assembles solar panel modules using imported cells from Premier Energies. This expansion aims to meet the increasing demand for solar modules with a higher percentage of domestic content. Such developments could secure additional tax benefits for project developers, further incentivizing local production.
Meeting Installer Demands
Heliene CEO Martin Pochtaruk emphasized the importance of the planned solar cell plant in meeting customer demands for modules with higher domestic content. He noted that developers can obtain a 10% bonus in tax credits for projects using U.S.-made components.
“Strong solar cell manufacturing offers solar developers a higher percentage of U.S.-made domestic content components for their projects, reduces reliance on imports, and releases stress on our supply chain,” Pochtaruk said.
Heliene’s collaboration with Premier aims to establish a robust American presence, potentially employing over 200 workers. The focus on domestic content is also reflected in their multi-year contract with NorSun to supply low-carbon wafers starting in 2026.
Could Minnesota be a Solar Manufacturing Center?
Abbi Morgan, from the Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association, expressed excitement about Heliene’s presence, noting that Minnesota is often overlooked in the clean energy sector. Despite the enthusiasm, Heliene’s operations have not yet attracted other manufacturers to the state. However, the company’s expansion plans and partnership efforts indicate a growing interest in Minnesota as a potential hub for solar manufacturing.
Heliene’s journey started with a $3.5 million state loan package in 2018, transforming a defunct solar module plant in Mountain Iron. The company has since tripled its production space, with significant investments from state loans and grants. Now, the focus has shifted to central Minnesota, where Heliene plans to develop two more manufacturing lines in Rogers, pending state funding decisions.
As Heliene waits for funding approval from the Minnesota Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund, Brett Angell, Rogers Community Development Director, noted the company’s potential fit within the city’s sustainable enterprises sector. Heliene plans to invest $16 million in building improvements and equipment, further solidifying its commitment to the region’s clean energy future.
While Heliene has yet to finalize a site for the new solar cell manufacturing plant, the venture’s potential scale is significantly larger than its existing operations. As the company navigates funding and logistical challenges, its commitment to onshoring production exemplifies the broader industry trend toward domestic manufacturing encouraged by federal incentives.
