Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the 2025 Reconciliation Bill, formally known as the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act.” In a surprising 11th-hour development, Congress voted to strip many of the green energy tax credits that have underpinned the growth of the American solar industry for over a decade. While some changes to the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) program were expected, the extent of these cuts has sent shockwaves through our sector.

If signed into law in its current form, this bill would deal a serious blow to the future of solar energy in the United States—and, more broadly, to America’s pursuit of energy independence and global energy leadership.

As President of Solar One, I want to be clear: this is not a partisan issue. The solar industry is largely bipartisan, driven by innovation, private investment, and a shared commitment to supporting the nation’s power grid with clean, cost-effective energy. In 2024 alone, solar added an impressive 56 gigawatts (gW) of new generation capacity in the U.S., while natural gas added just 7 gW between 2024 and 2025 combined. Despite this performance, the current political winds seem to favor natural gas—an energy source already plagued by rising costs and logistical bottlenecks.

This transition would provide the industry with the runway needed to adapt while protecting the jobs, investments, and grid contributions that solar energy delivers every day.

It’s also worth remembering that commercial and industrial solar projects align with President Trump’s promise to “keep tax credits for corporations in America.” In recent years, leading solar manufacturers have opened plants across the U.S., creating thousands of high-quality American jobs. Gutting the ITC threatens to undo that progress.

I urge lawmakers in both the House and Senate to reconsider the broader economic and energy ramifications of this bill. American solar energy is not a political talking point—it’s a vital component of our nation’s energy strategy and economic future.

Let’s not sacrifice progress for politics.

As the policy landscape evolves, it’s crucial we keep a close eye on developments that could shape the future of clean energy in the U.S. The past couple weeks brought significant updates to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) framework—updates that, while not without concern, are more measured than anticipated. While any reduction to current incentives is a step back, this proposal provides clarity and, importantly, a long runway for adaptation and advocacy.

Here’s what we're seeing in the first draft of the legislation—and what it means for solar, wind, and battery storage:

Gradual Sunset of Main Tax Credits

The foundational tax credits for clean energy—48E Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) and 48Y Production Tax Credits (PTCs)—are set to begin sunsetting in 2029. The phaseout will follow a 4-year slope: 80% in 2029, then 60%, 40%, and ultimately 0%. While not ideal, this provides long-term visibility and a path for potential renewal, as we've seen in past cycles.

Transferability Limits, But with a Practical Buffer

Transferability will be phased out for projects that begin construction two years after the bill's enactment. In effect, any project safe-harbored before mid-to-late 2027 will still qualify. This gives the market time to adapt, and there's every possibility this could shift again with future administrations or legislative amendments.

Direct Pay and Adders Remain Intact—For Now

The structure around direct pay and tax credit adders (e.g., domestic content, energy communities) remains untouched—welcome news for C&I developers. However, certain other credits, including Section 25D for residential solar and 30C for EV charging, are slated for sunset beginning December 31, 2025. Notably, the expiration of 25D may open the door to increased adoption of third-party ownership models in residential solar.

New Restrictions for Foreign Ownership

A new recapture provision has been introduced targeting ownership and influence by “Prohibited Foreign Entities,” also known as Foreign Entities of Concern. This could have implications for financing and partnerships, particularly for projects with complex international structures or components.

At Solar One, we’re tracking these developments closely. This is just the starting point in what will be a longer process. We’re engaging with industry peers, partners, and policymakers to ensure that commercial and industrial solar continues to be supported through sound, forward-thinking policy.

We’ll keep you informed as this legislation moves through Congress—and continue advocating for a clean energy future that remains accessible, resilient, and scalable.

After completing their Glendale, AZ flagship solar project in 2023, Cavco Industries reunites with Solar One for three additional solar projects aimed at steadying rising energy costs.

Sherman, TX – April 22, 2025 – Solar One, a Texas-based leader in commercial and industrial solar energy solutions, is proud to announce its ongoing relationship with Cavco Industries, one of the nation's top producers of affordable manufactured homes. Together, the companies are reducing energy costs and increasing long-term value through large-scale solar installations at Cavco’s manufacturing facilities.

After evaluating several providers, Cavco selected Solar One for its unique experience in the manufactured housing sector, national project capabilities, and strong record of reliability and professionalism. The most recent Cavco initiative was to build 887kW parking canopy solar arrays to produce almost 1,164,350 kW/hours of electricity each year, offsetting three of Cavco’s plants’ annual power consumption between 35% to 100% at the selected facilities. These solar projects—built in Deming, New Mexico; Emlenton, Pennsylvania; and Shippenville, Pennsylvania—have many similarities to the first project Solar One completed for Cavco in 2023, the groundbreaking Cavco Park Models and Cabins manufacturing facility in Glendale, Arizona.

“Our flagship project for Cavco in Glendale, Arizona alone has generated over 2.35 gigawatt-hours in just 18 months. That’s the equivalent of powering 216 average U.S. homes for a year,” said Aaron Wilson, CEO of Solar One. “By locking in energy rates and reducing operational costs, Cavco can focus on what they do best—providing exceptional quality homes at prices more families can afford.”

"With rising utility costs impacting every industry, investing in solar has helped us stabilize a key part of our manufacturing expenses,” said Steve Like, Senior Vice President at Cavco Industries, echoing the value of the relationship. “That stability allows us to pass savings directly on to our homebuyers while continuing to invest in long-term sustainability. With our focus on making things better for the communities where we build, going to solar also helps us do our part to reduce emissions and our environmental impact.”

 

Solar One continues to work with trusted industry partner SolarEdge to deliver innovative solutions for solar system energy inverters, power optimizers, and monitoring systems for all projects. One pioneering feature built within the power optimizers is the SolarEdge Sense Connect, which allows continuous monitoring to detect any performance issues or connector-level wear and tear. This future-forward safety technology ensures the longevity of solar systems installed by Solar One in a variety of climates around the U.S.

With the path ahead full of potential, Solar One remains committed to helping Cavco—and other forward-thinking manufacturers—build a more resilient and cost-effective energy future.

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About Solar One

Based in Texas, Solar One delivers powerful, large-scale solar solutions for commercial and industrial companies. With energy prices continually increasing, our performance-designed systems begin saving energy costs from day one. We help businesses take control of rising costs by implementing future forward solar technologies. Growth in recent years has extended their reach beyond Texas to favorable markets like Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Maryland, South Carolina, Arizona, New Mexico, and Florida. To learn more, visit www.solar-one.com 

About Cavco

Cavco Industries, Inc., headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, designs and produces factory-built housing products primarily distributed through a network of independent and Company-owned retailers. We are one of the largest producers of manufactured and modular homes in the United States, based on reported wholesale shipments. We are also a leading producer of park model RVs, vacation cabins and factory-built commercial structures. Cavco’s finance subsidiary, CountryPlace Mortgage, is an approved Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac seller/servicer and a Ginnie Mae mortgage-backed securities issuer that offers conforming mortgages, non-conforming mortgages, and home-only loans to purchasers of factory-built homes. Our insurance subsidiary, Standard Casualty, provides property and casualty insurance to owners of manufactured homes. Visit cavcohomes.com to learn more.

Press Contacts

Solar One

Allen Oliver, Director of Marketing
marketing@solar-one.com
Phone: 903-890-9052

Cavco

Colleen Rogers, SVP – Marketing & Communications
media@cavco.com
Phone: 972-763-5038

Manufacturing facilities are some of the most energy-intensive operations in the economy—and that makes them particularly vulnerable to rising energy costs. With utility rates increasing year over year and uncertainty around grid stability, more manufacturers are seeking proactive ways to take control of their energy future.

One of the most effective—and increasingly necessary—solutions? Onsite solar.

The Rising Cost of Powering Production

Energy is the backbone of every manufacturing operation. Whether it’s powering assembly lines, running heavy machinery, or maintaining environmental controls, manufacturers rely on consistent, affordable electricity. But energy costs are rising, and volatility in utility pricing is making it harder for businesses to forecast and control expenses.

This is where onsite solar offers a game-changing advantage.

Why Solar One Works for Manufacturing

At Solar One, we design and install solar energy systems specifically for commercial and industrial clients. We understand the unique energy demands of manufacturing—and we tailor our systems to meet them.

Here’s how onsite solar benefits manufacturers:

• Cost Control: Solar significantly reduces your monthly utility spend, freeing up capital for operations and innovation.

• Long-Term Price Stability: Lock in your energy rates for 10, 15, or even 20 years—no more surprises from fluctuating utility bills.

• Operational Resilience: Reduce dependence on the grid and increase energy reliability.

• Sustainability Wins: Meet environmental goals, improve ESG scores, and attract sustainability-minded clients or partners.

From “Nice to Have” to Necessary

Historically, solar has been viewed by some manufacturers as a “green” initiative—something optional or nice to implement when budgets allow. But the landscape is shifting fast.

With costs of solar at all-time lows, government incentives on the rise, and pressure mounting to reduce carbon emissions, onsite solar is no longer discretionary. It’s a smart business decision—and in many cases, a competitive necessity.

Future-Proof Your Facility

Manufacturers who act now are positioning themselves for long-term success. Those who wait may find themselves at a disadvantage—not just in energy costs, but in sustainability benchmarks, investor expectations, and operational agility.

At Solar One, we’re helping manufacturers across the country future-proof their operations with reliable, cost-effective solar solutions.

Ready to take control of your energy future?

Let’s talk about how solar can power your plant—today and for decades to come. CLICK HERE TO GET STARTED

SolarEdge Technologies recently announced that its U.S.-manufactured solar inverter portfolio, including its upcoming 480V Commercial & Industrial (C&I) product line, is now compliant with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act. This milestone enables SolarEdge to participate in federally funded infrastructure projects while supporting domestic manufacturing and job creation in Florida and Texas.

The BABA-compliant lineup includes various three-phase and single-phase inverters, along with power optimizers designed to maximize system performance, safety, and reliability. Industry leaders, including Solar One, have praised the compliance, highlighting its value for federal projects and long-term investment viability.

"At Solar One, we recognize SolarEdge's commitment to delivering cutting-edge inverter solutions,” said Aaron Wilson, CEO of Solar One. "Their upcoming BABA-compliant 480V DC optimized inverter solutions for C&I applications will be immensely valuable to our end customers and the long-term viability of their investments. SolarEdge’s focus on safety, power optimization, and their advanced monitoring capabilities makes them the clear choice for Commercial and Industrial projects.”

By achieving BABA compliance, SolarEdge strengthens its position in the U.S. market, supporting the expansion of American-made solar technology and advancing clean energy solutions nationwide.

Suncast Corporation – Committed to Sustainability

Batavia, IL – June 15, 2021

Suncast Corporation, the market-leading manufacturer of high-quality resin products made in the U.S.A., announced the installation of new solar array panels to help power its Batavia, Illinois operations.

The solar panels will generate in thousands of kilowatts of clean energy to help run our plant, and allow us to do it in a sustainable and more environmentally friendly way.  This enhancement not only improves our facility, but also benefits the community.  We believe that this is not only the right thing to do, but good business.  

“Suncast Corporation is committed to sustainability and corporate responsibility in all that we do, and the addition of this solar array will help us power our operations in a socially responsible and environmentally sound way and furthers us toward our goal of becoming carbon neutral,” said Thomas Tisbo, CEO and President of Suncast Corporation.

The installation of the solar array panels is just one of many initiatives taken by Suncast to operate in an environmentally friendly, responsible and sustainable way.  Other initiatives include the use of recycled materials together with offering recycling for all products it sells, the use of electric powered hybrid vehicles at facilities, and the replacement of lighting and equipment with more efficient alternatives. 

About Suncast^® and Suncast Commercial^®

Suncast Corporation is a privately held designer, manufacturer and distributor of consumer and commercial products for the home and industrial markets. The scope of the extensive product range includes innovative items in several categories encompassing: Outdoor Storage, Lawn and Garden, planters, Snow Tools, Deck and Patio Accessories, Outdoor Furniture, and several others.

Suncast continues to be a leader in the design and manufacture of high-quality resin products made in the U.S.A. for over 35 years. The Suncast brand is the market share leader in hose reels, outdoor storage and snow tools. These products are sold through over 25,000 retail outlets in the United States and Canada, primarily through Big Box, Hardware, Clubs and Specialty Retail chains as well as major e-commerce providers.

To learn more about the full line of Suncast and Suncast Commercial^® products, visit our websites: Suncast.com and suncastcommercial.com.

Source: https://www.suncast.com/news/solar

Solar One

We were tremendously excited to build Suncast Corporation’s solar installation at their Batavia, IL facility where they manufacture high-quality resin products here in the U.S. This system has a total capacity of 1.631 MW that will produce over 2 million kWh’s annually. The project utilized SolarEdge inverters and Unirac‘s EcoFoot2+ ballasted mounting system. 

This project is part of a larger picture for Suncast. In 2021, they launched their Brilliant by Design™ sustainability initiative that includes leaning into solar and other emissions reduction strategies, such as swapping wooden skids and blocks for recyclable corrugated cardboard versions, allowing them to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions by 25% across all facilities by 2025 and achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.

Suncast has amazing goals set before them and Solar One is proud to do our part.