BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — A new 150,000-square-foot plant is coming to Bowling Green to aid First Solar in manufacturing solar panels.
Sylvania-based Ice Industries announced Wednesday it is building a new facility at 333 Van Camp Road. The $9 million plant will create 120 new jobs and expects to be up and running by October.
Ice Industries was selected by First Solar to supply the company with steel black rails for its advanced thin film modules.
"This is a new and significant opportunity for Ice to support the growing and important solar industry, while partnering with First Solar, an American company and global industry leader in the production of PV panels," Ice Chairman and CEO Howard Ice said. "These jobs result from our country’s increasing focus and investment in clean energy technology. Northwest Ohio’s existing solar investment, logistics advantage, glass heritage, and steel production and forming knowledge is coming together in support of alternative energy, making it the true home of American solar."
First Solar is building its third United States manufacturing plant in Lake Township. That $680 million project will expand America's annual domestic PV solar manufacturing capacity by 3.3 gigawatts.
The plant is expected to be operational by the second half of 2023 and is believed to make First Solar the largest fully integrated solar manufacturing complex outside of China.
The new Ice plant will hire general workers, supervisors, material handlers, and other positions. Wages start at $18 an hour.
“As America’s solar company, we’re committed to growing our U.S. supply chain and we’re pleased that the back rails for our next generation of solar modules will be manufactured right here in Ohio,” said Mike Koralewski, chief manufacturing operations officer for First Solar. “Ice Industries’ investment in Ohio delivers yet more evidence that high-value solar manufacturing is good for America. Our decision to double down on our manufacturing footprint in the state is bringing in more jobs and more investment through our supply ecosystem. Investment in manufacturing creates a durable, long-term economic impact.”
Ice considered many sites in Ohio and Michigan for the plant before choosing the Bowling Green location.
“Ice Industries had considered several potential locations for their new operation, and we’re thrilled they’ve chosen Bowling Green," Bowling Green Economic Development Executive Director Kati Thompson said. "With a strong history of success and their presence in an important industry, we know they’ll be a tremendous asset to our community. We look forward to supporting their efforts as they get up and running and beyond.”
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