Nextpower invests in Tennessee to strengthen US clean energy supply chain
Subscribe to our free newsletter today to keep up to date with the latest manufacturing news.
Nextpower, a leading provider of intelligent power systems for utility-scale solar plants, has announced a major expansion of its US manufacturing footprint. The company has launched a new Southeast regional hub, including a Remote Monitoring Center in Nashville, alongside a significant boost to its fabrication capacity in Memphis, Tennessee.
The expansion includes a new steel fabrication line operated by MSS Steel Tubes USA. This addition doubles the company’s US production capacity for solar tracker systems. These systems are critical components in large-scale solar projects, allowing photovoltaic panels to track the sun and improve energy output.
This investment positions Nextpower to better serve the growing demand for utility-scale solar across the Southeast. The company’s move reflects a broader trend within the renewable energy sector to shift supply chains closer to deployment zones and reduce dependence on overseas manufacturing.
New jobs and new infrastructure
The Memphis facility already supports around 120 skilled jobs. With the new line in operation, that number is expected to grow to approximately 150. This represents not just an increase in headcount but an investment in the skilled labor force required to build and maintain clean energy infrastructure in the United States.
By manufacturing steel torque tubes and other key structural elements domestically, Nextpower is increasing the proportion of US-made components in its systems. This step helps project developers qualify for federal incentives that favor domestic content and reduces the risks tied to global supply chain disruptions.
Reagan Farr, CEO of Silicon Ranch, a key partner in the Southeast solar market, praised the investment. He noted that Silicon Ranch has already installed more than four gigawatts of solar capacity and plans to double that figure within three years. Expansions like Nextpower’s will play a critical role in achieving that goal while supporting local manufacturing jobs.
Supporting the Southeast’s solar growth
The Southeastern United States has become a major growth market for utility-scale solar. According to regional energy reports, the Southeast added five gigawatts of solar capacity in 2024, pushing the total to nearly 28 gigawatts. That number is expected to reach 54 gigawatts by 2030.
States such as Tennessee, Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina are investing in solar as part of broader efforts to modernize grids, increase energy security, and diversify power generation. Nextpower’s new fabrication capacity will support many of these installations, particularly those developed and operated by Silicon Ranch, one of the country’s largest independent power producers.
Dan Shugar, CEO of Nextpower, said the new line helps meet regional demand faster while strengthening the company’s supply chain. He emphasized that this is not just about building more solar infrastructure, but about building it better, faster, and closer to where it is needed.
A model for clean energy manufacturing
Nextpower’s move aligns with a national push to reshore clean energy manufacturing. As the US government and private sector look to expand domestic production of renewable energy equipment, companies like Nextpower are creating templates for regionalized, resilient supply networks.
Manufacturing solar tracker systems inside the US shortens delivery times, improves quality control, and reduces transportation emissions. It also adds value to the regional economy by creating jobs and stimulating investment in related sectors such as logistics, welding, and electrical assembly.
While the solar industry has often relied on imports for structural components, especially from Asia, that model is beginning to change. Tariffs, trade policy, and industrial strategy are now encouraging firms to invest in U.S.-based production. Nextpower’s expansion shows how private capital and local partnerships can work in concert to support national energy goals.
Looking ahead
As the energy transition accelerates, demand for solar infrastructure will continue to rise. Companies that can align speed, scale, and local content will be best positioned to compete. Nextpower’s expanded capacity in Tennessee gives it an edge in this race and provides a clear example of how domestic manufacturing can contribute to both economic development and energy resilience.
This investment also reflects a broader transformation within US manufacturing. No longer limited to traditional sectors, advanced fabrication and renewable energy are becoming pillars of regional growth.
Sources