Solarcycle accelerates expansion plans for Polk County operation

Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that SOLARCYCLE, a solar recycling company, is accelerating its expansion in Polk County, Georgia. The company plans to invest an additional $62 million to increase its capacity to recycle 10 million solar panels annually and create 640 new full-time jobs.

"As Georgia continues to lead the nation in attracting jobs from emerging industries, we're thankful SOLARCYCLE is moving up creation of these opportunities in northwest Georgia, benefitting that entire region's economy," said Governor Brian Kemp. "I want to thank our local and state partners who made this accelerated growth in Polk County possible, and I look forward to its impact in the years to come."

The facility will be located near a previously announced solar glass factory which will employ 617 people. This factory will use recycled materials from retired solar panels to produce five to six gigawatts of solar glass annually.

"We are pleased to accelerate our work in Cedartown in partnership with Governor Kemp and Polk County," said Suvi Sharma, CEO and Co-Founder at SOLARCYCLE. "We applaud Governor Kemp for his leadership supporting clean energy policy that has made it possible to scale solar manufacturing in the state."

SOLARCYCLE has acquired a building at 270 North Park Boulevard in Cedartown for its recycling operations. The facility is expected to be operational by the second half of 2025.

"The decision by SOLARCYCLE to expedite their manufacturing process by refurbishing a currently vacant facility and creating additional employment opportunities is a true testament to their commitment as a long-term corporate sponsor in Cedartown-Polk County," said Chris Thomas, President and CEO of Development Authority of Polk County.

Senior Regional Project Manager Lori Dowdy represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Global Commerce team on this project alongside other partners.

"Northwest Georgia has been a center of manufacturing in Georgia for decades – from providing the flooring we use in our homes and offices to now producing technology for clean energy," said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson.

Georgia ranks seventh by cumulative solar capacity according to the Solar Energy Industries Association. The state's energy solutions providers are working towards accelerating renewable energy development through various means including reducing costs and investing in infrastructure.

SOLARCYCLE was founded in 2022 with the aim of maximizing solar sustainability through innovative recycling processes.