A walkthrough of the Blackwater Creek Trail. Facebook Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack | All Of Our Podcasts “The Solarix modules will be designed for various applications, including agrivoltaics, and will feature bifacial dual glass technology, capable of generating up to 725 Watts (W) of energy under Standard Test Conditions (STC),” Class said in the release. As part of its phase II expansion, Solarix is adding a solar module recycling line to foster a true net-zero product lifecycle, the release states. This initiative will accept old and broken modules from other manufacturers, helping customers replace them with Solarix’s advanced modules. This strategic addition underscores Solarix’s commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency. “We are excited to welcome Solarix to the Lynchburg Region — an established and growing energy manufacturing hub here in Virginia,” Rosana Chaidez, board chair of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance and president & CEO of Handy Distribution, said in the release. “I’d also like to thank the Bank of the James for their integral partnership on this project. Our region stands ready to support Solarix’s growth and aspirations.” Increasing clean energy manufacturing and output is not only beneficial for the Lynchburg Region but a goal for all of Virginia and its neighboring states, the release states. In 2020, the Virginia General Assembly passed the Virginia Clean Economy Act (VCEA), setting a goal to make Virginia’s energy economy carbon-free by 2050 and establish a 16-gigawatt (GW) goal for energy generation from solar and onshore wind, the release states. Solarix’s new facility is set to achieve a production capacity of 1 GW per year with plans to expand to 3 GW per year in their Forest facility, significantly aiding Virginia and surrounding states in meeting their clean energy goals. The facility is projected to produce 200 modules per hour, boasting production cycle times at 99.95% quality output, and offering a 30-year performance warranty on every module. “I am thrilled to learn that the Teva Building has been sold and would like to warmly welcome Solarix to Forest! This new venture promises significant economic growth, with 104 new job opportunities and capital investments of upwards of $60 million,” Sen. Mark Peake, R-Lynchburg, said in the release. “This development is a testament to Central Virginia’s vibrant business environment and our community’s potential for innovation and growth. We look forward to the positive impact Solarix will have on our local economy and the opportunities it will create for our residents.” Del. Tim Griffin ,R-Bedford, said he is proud to welcome this new business to Forest. “Jobs and boosting our local economy are one of our top priorities,” Griffin said in the release. “I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our community’s growth and prosperity.” The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance worked with the Bedford County Office of Economic Development to support the project for Virginia, the release states. Rachael Smith, (434) 385-5482