Clean Energy for America and OMCO Solar, one of the nation’s leading U.S. factory-direct manufacturers of solar trackers and fixed-tilt solutions, recently hosted an event with local business leaders, solar energy organizations and local elected officials to discuss how and why Arizona needs to focus energy on creating a more business-friendly environment for solar energy and solar manufacturing.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Arizona ranks fifth behind California, Texas, Florida and North Carolina for the amount of cumulative solar capacity installed through 2022.
Arizona has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and a strong domestic solar manufacturing footprint that brings significant economic impact and job growth to the state. However, multiple companies like OMCO Solar have established their headquarters and solar manufacturing base in Arizona and are deploying business to more pro solar states across the country.
“Arizona can truly be the leader in solar,” said John Mitman, founder and CEO at Obodo Energy and board president of Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association (AriSEIA). “Our thriving construction industry, fueled by the booming semiconductor and EV sectors in our region, is laying the groundwork for the widespread adoption of solar and energy storage. AriSEIA will continue applying pressure to ensure that a sustainable future manifests itself in Arizona through solar energy as a key strategic resource.”
Participants toured OMCO Solar’s 182,000-square-foot solar tracker manufacturing facility, which is the second largest in the United States located at 4550 W. Watkins St. in Phoenix.
“Arizona has the perfect landscape for solar energy. We have the opportunity and capacity to grow at our Phoenix facility and we are excited about the future,” said Eric Goodwin, executive director of OMCO Solar and board member of SEIA.
OMCO Solar, has been in the business of manufacturing for nearly 70 years using 100 percent U.S. steel.
“OMCO Solar is a pinnacle example of U.S. clean energy, creating innovative technology and good-paying jobs, cutting pollution and consumer costs, while spurring innovation,” said Andrew Reagan, executive director of Clean Energy for America.
Photo: Eric Goodwin, executive director of OMCO Solar and board member of SEIA; City of Phoenix Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira; John Mitman, founder and CEO at Obodo Energy and board president of Arizona Solar Energy Industries Association (AriSEIA)
