Solar components manufacturer strengthens US investments in significant state: "Thrilled to broaden our presence"
fox Business' Jeff Flock chats with Natural Resources President Doug Robinson about the surging energy sector and job opportunities on 'Varney & Co.'
Michigan residents are set to capitalize on increased options for advanced manufacturing roles in the energy industry.
A monumental shift in investment strategy by Corning Inc. in Saginaw County, Michigan, has seen Corning up their game from $900 million to a staggering $1.5 billion. This expansion is projected to create an astounding 400 additional high-salary advanced manufacturing positions, pushing the facility's workforce total to a whopping 1,500[1][2][4].
The Michigan facility will primarily focus on producing solar-related items in response to mounting demand for American-made energy sector goods[1].
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A solar field illuminates in front of wind turbines in Brandenburg, Nauen, Sept. 6, 2024. (Kay Nietfeld/picture alliance via / Getty Images)
Wendell P. Weeks, chairman and CEO of Corning, expressed immense pride in meeting the growing demand for solar products within the nation and voiced continued support for the U.S.'s domestic energy security[1].
"Corning has deep roots in Michigan, and our enthusiasm for growing our presence here with a new manufacturing plant is palpable," Weeks added[1].
In addition to this initiative, Corning Vice President and General Manager of Solar Technologies, AB Ghosh, pointed out the project's significance in aiding U.S. energy supply chain security[1].
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President Donald Trump delves into a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House on April 24, 2025. (Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images)
Corning's expansion revelation was shared via a X account operated by the Trump White House - Rapid Response 47.
Local news outlet The Corning Leader reported that Saginaw County boasts a population of nearly 190,000 (as per 2023 U.S. Census data), and the facility is scheduled to rise within Richland Township, following the approval of more than $100 million in grants in 2024 through the public Michigan Strategic Fund[4].
"Corning has a rich, storied history in Michigan, and today they are enlarging their presence here with a brand-new manufacturing facility creating over 1,100 well-paying jobs," Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared in a statement released in February 2024. "With an investment of up to $900 million in Saginaw County, Corning opted for Michigan due to its robust talent pool and unwavering commitment to fostering an environment that propels the creation of an American-made clean energy future"[1].
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Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer attends a meeting in the East Room of the White House on Feb. 10, 2023. (Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images)
Domestic energy production holds high priority within the Trump administration, particularly the oil and gas industry. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has expressed concerns regarding subsidies being provided to solar, but recognizes its relevance in the broader energy mix, as reported by CBS News[3].
On a related note, President Donald Trump is set to deliver remarks in Michigan to mark his first 100 days in office. The state continues to serve as a centerpiece for the nation's manufacturing sector, with the administration publicizing $5.2 trillion in private-sector investments since Trump's inauguration, which is estimated to create over 450,000 jobs[3].
- The expansion of Corning Inc.'s investment in Saginaw County, Michigan, from $900 million to $1.5 billion is not only a boost for energy security but also for advanced manufacturing jobs, creating an additional 400 high-salary positions.
- In line with the growing demand for American-made energy sector goods, the Michigan facility primarily focuses on producing solar-related items.
- Corning's Vice President and General Manager of Solar Technologies, AB Ghosh, emphasized the project's significance in aiding U.S. energy supply chain security.
- The Trump White House - Rapid Response 47 shared the news of Corning's expansion, which is scheduled to occur in Richland Township, following the approval of over $100 million in grants in 2024 through the public Michigan Strategic Fund.
