TLDRs;
- Tesla is hiring aggressively to expand U.S. solar manufacturing, signaling ambitious domestic energy plans by 2028.
- Tesla connects solar manufacturing expansion to AI electricity needs, supporting its tech-focused growth strategy.
- Tesla aims for full vertical integration in solar, gaining greater supply chain control and manufacturing independence.
- Tesla shares rise despite execution risks, with investors betting on long-term domestic solar growth.
Tesla (TSLA) shares climbed on growing investor optimism following the company’s announcement of expanded U.S. solar manufacturing efforts. Executives confirmed on LinkedIn that Tesla is actively hiring staff to support its ambitious plan to become a leading domestic producer of solar energy components.
The company aims to reach 100 gigawatts of solar manufacturing from raw materials on American soil by 2028, a target that had not been previously disclosed by CEO Elon Musk. This aggressive expansion comes as Tesla seeks to integrate energy production into its broader strategy, which now heavily emphasizes artificial intelligence and robotics.
Tesla Steps Up U.S. Solar Hiring
Tesla is posting new positions for engineers, technicians, and production staff focused on large-scale solar manufacturing. While the company has not specified the locations for all upcoming production sites, the move indicates a significant ramp-up in domestic solar operations.
Tesla recently launched a new solar panel at its Buffalo, New York, factory, signaling a renewed push toward in-house solar production rather than reliance on external partners.
Linking Solar Growth to AI and Data Needs
Executives have framed the 100-gigawatt target in the context of rising electricity demands from AI workloads and data centers. As Tesla transitions toward an AI-driven future, expanding its solar capabilities ensures the company can supply its growing energy needs while maintaining operational control.
Analysts note that this approach reflects a broader strategic pivot from Tesla’s traditional focus on electric vehicles to a more diversified technology firm integrating energy, AI, and robotics.
Vertical Integration and Supply Chain Control
Since Panasonic exited as a solar partner in 2020, Tesla has increasingly emphasized controlling more of its supply chain. The current solar initiative reflects this ambition, giving Tesla the ability to produce panels and energy components entirely in-house.
Industry observers describe Musk’s 2028 target as aspirational, noting that large-scale projects frequently face delays. Despite these risks, investors have reacted positively to Tesla’s promise of increased vertical integration in energy manufacturing.
Execution Risks and Investor Sentiment
While market enthusiasm is evident, analysts caution that Tesla’s solar expansion carries execution risks. Large infrastructure projects often experience setbacks, and exact manufacturing sites have yet to be confirmed.
Nonetheless, Tesla’s stock rose as investors weighed the company’s potential to become a major domestic solar producer against the risks associated with scaling production so rapidly.
Tesla’s push into domestic solar manufacturing highlights the company’s evolving identity. No longer solely an automaker, Tesla is positioning itself as an energy and technology powerhouse capable of integrating renewable energy production with AI-driven operations. As hiring ramps up and new panels come online, the company’s ambitious 2028 goal will be a key focus for investors looking for both growth potential and operational resilience.




