First Solar has reported robust financial results for the second quarter of 2025, posting net sales of $1.097 billion — up from $845 million in Q1-2025 and $1.01 billion in Q2-2024.
First Solar raised its full-year net sales forecast to a range of $4.9 billion to $5.7 billion, up from its previous range of $4.5 billion to $5.5 billion.
The company has benefitted from alignment with U.S. policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and the recently proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (H.R. 1). As part of its planning, First Solar has factored in the sale of approximately 95 percent of its anticipated Section 45X tax credit value for 2025—about $75 million lower than earlier estimates.
First Solar CEO Mark Widmar stated that recent policy and trade changes have improved the company’s competitive position in the solar manufacturing industry. He added that utility-scale solar remains attractive due to its cost efficiency and quick deployment, making First Solar well-positioned as a leader in that segment, regardless of policy shifts.
Investments in innovation remain a priority, with research and development (R&D) expenses totaling $54 million during the quarter. Capital expenditures guidance for 2025 remains unchanged, supporting the company’s manufacturing expansion strategy.
First Solar is ramping up production at its Alabama facility and has initiated integrated production at its new factory in Louisiana. It continues to evaluate global operations, including potential temporary production idling in Malaysia and Vietnam to retain strategic flexibility amid evolving trade dynamics.
The company’s position has been further strengthened by the U.S. government’s imposition of new tariffs on imported solar panels, which are expected to lead to higher selling prices for domestically produced products. Shares of First Solar rose over 4 percent in after-hours trading following the announcement.
CEO Mark Widmar emphasized that recent policy and trade developments are bolstering First Solar’s competitiveness in the global solar manufacturing market. Earlier this month, the company joined other U.S. solar manufacturers in urging the Commerce Department to impose tariffs on imports from Indonesia, India, and Laos to protect domestic investments and compete more effectively against Chinese suppliers.
GreentechLead.com News Desk