First Solar commissioned photojournalist Dane Rhys to travel the breadth of its uniquely American value chain.

On a journey that took him from coast to coast, Dane met the people who are enabling America’s Solar Company, First Solar, and our country’s energy transition. He documented their work and their stories, creating a visual essay that expands our understanding of who the American solar worker really is.

This is a celebration of the American solar worker. Here are some of their stories.

When it comes to American Solar, all roads lead through Perrysburg, Ohio. The American Midwest is home to the largest fully vertically integrated solar panel manufacturing complex outside of China.

There isn’t a more American solar technology in the market than the panels produced by First Solar’s factories in the United States. And this is entirely by design.

First Solar has invested over $1.5 billion in its uniquely American solar technology. And it continues to invest heavily in R&D through its team of scientists and researchers and continued collaboration with American universities and research institutions. Its new, first-of-its-kind R&D innovation center under construction in Perrysburg, Ohio, is expected to accelerate its ability to innovate and maintain American leadership in thin film solar panel production.