Act Fast: $145M Solar Panel Factory Project Set for Twin Cities
Heliene Inc., a prominent Canadian solar panel manufacturer, is set to make a significant investment in the United States. With an already successful plant operating on the Iron Range, Heliene has its sights on expanding its presence with a brand new $145 million plant in the Twin Cities, marking its second venture in Minnesota.
Martin Pochtaruk, the President of Heliene, shared his enthusiasm for this strategic move, stating, “There is a very strong demand in the U.S. for the product.” The decision to invest in the Twin Cities reflects Heliene’s confidence in the market’s potential and the region’s favorable conditions for its operations.
Currently, Heliene’s Iron Range plant stands tall as one of the largest solar panel manufacturing facilities in the country. Building on this success, the company is eager to replicate its achievements in the Twin Cities.
While the exact location for the new plant has not been finalized yet, Pochtaruk revealed that Heliene plans to create 470 job opportunities and aims to begin production by late 2024. In its search for the perfect site, Heliene seeks approximately 300,000 square feet of existing industrial space, ensuring a swift and efficient setup.
The $145 million budget is earmarked for state-of-the-art equipment and other essential services, enabling the company to maintain its reputation for excellence in the industry. Heliene’s commitment to technological advancements underscores its dedication to producing cutting-edge solar panels.
The news comes on the heels of Heliene’s remarkable $21 million expansion of its Mountain Iron plant, which currently employs 155 workers. This expansion is projected to create an additional 120 jobs by the year’s end, solidifying Heliene’s position as a provider of good, stable wages for its employees and a valuable contributor to the local tax base.
Mountain Iron City Administrator, Craig Wainio, expressed his satisfaction with the existing collaboration, stating, “They provide good solid wages and tax base for us. It’s been a good project.”
As Heliene gears up for its groundbreaking journey in the Twin Cities, the company’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and job creation stands as a testament to its commitment to both the environment and local economies.
With production slated to begin in 2024, the anticipation builds for Heliene’s new venture in the Twin Cities. The company’s investment promises to usher in a bright future for solar energy, job growth, and economic prosperity in the region. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development as Heliene embarks on this transformative journey.
