Toyo Solar Expands Ethiopian Capacity

Key Figures & Findings: Toyo Solar, a Japanese solar cell and module manufacturer, is doubling down on its investment in Ethiopia with a second solar cell manufacturing facility planned in Hawassa. The company began pilot production at its initial 2GW plant in February and is now moving quickly to secure a lease for the new site. It aims to have construction in April and commercial operations by August. Toyo's Ethiopian operations are central to its broader supply chain strategy, slated for 2026.

Statistics & Insights: Thanks to shared infrastructure, the first plant required $60 million, while the second will cost $47 million. Toyo shipped 1.3GW of cells between October 2023 and June 2024 and aims to reach a total capacity of 4GW in Ethiopia. 

Future Implications:  If Toyo stays on schedule, the second factory could be operational by August 2025. Additionally, Toyo's non-Chinese production model could attract more buyers and inspire similar strategies across East Africa.

Source:  PV Tech