Solar panel maker Suniva adding second plant
Norcross-based Suniva, which makes solar panels for consumer and commercial use, said it will add a second manufacturing facility, in mid-Michigan.
Construction to convert a former Sears warehouse in Saginaw Township will begin next month with production starting in the fourth quarter of this year.
The plant, which will build high-efficiency crystalline silicon solar cells and modules, is expected to create 350 jobs in Saginaw, the company said.
Local media reports said Suniva abandoned plans to build a plant in Saginaw County’s Thomas Township in 2009. This time around, the company received a $2.5 million performance-based state grant.
Suniva already manufactures solar energy components at is plant in Norcross on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, the site of the companys’ headquarters.
A company spokesman said Suniva has abuot 200 employees in Norcross. "Our Michigan plant will open with around 100 employees, mostly ... residents from the local area," spokesman Eric Petruzzelli said.
