T1 Energy Inc. has taken a major step forward in its $850 million G2_Austin 5 GW Solar Cell Facility, naming Yates Construction as its contractor for preconstruction services. The facility, located in Milam County, Texas, is expected to begin production by the end of 2026 and create up to 1,800 full-time jobs.

The project received a boost with unanimous approval from the Milam County Commissioners for a long-term tax abatement package. The incentive is contingent upon T1 Energy meeting specific job creation and capital investment targets.

G2_Austin will complement T1’s existing G1_Dallas 5 GW Solar Module Facility, supporting the company's goal to build a domestic solar and battery supply chain. The facility will produce TOPCon solar cells, a next-generation technology aimed at addressing growing U.S. demand for domestically manufactured solar components.

Yates Construction, part of The Yates Companies, Inc., joins SSOE Group, which has led engineering efforts since December 2024. Final commercial terms for general contracting are pending.

T1 Energy credits favorable federal trade policies under the Trump Administration as enabling conditions for this expansion, aimed at boosting U.S. energy independence and advanced manufacturing.