Solar manufacturer coming to Forest, bringing in 100+ jobs with $63M investment

FOREST, Va. (WSET) — A new solar manufacturer investment in Forest is bringing 104 jobs to Bedford County in 2025.

According to the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, Solarix is set to establish a state-of-the-art solar module manufacturing facility in the former TEVA Pharmaceutical building.

LRBA said the new facility will aim to support Virginia’s renewable energy supply needs and reduce dependence on foreign manufacturers. The building Solarix will be taking over is 423,555 square feet and takes up 56.2 acres of land. The product manufactured there will be for advanced solar panels.

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“I’m thrilled that Solarix has decided to set up operations in Bedford County,” said Edgar Tuck, Chairman of the Bedford County Board of Supervisors. “It’s great to see this long-vacant space finally being put to beneficial use.”

To Carlos Class, CEO and Co-Founder of Solarix, the company isn’t just about producing energy but is a part of a national improvement.

“As a 100% American-owned and managed company, we are immensely proud to contribute to our nation’s energy independence. Our mission is to deliver the highest quality, most reliable, and affordable solar modules in the industry,” Class said. “By reclaiming control of our supply chain from foreign manufacturers, we are safeguarding our electric grid infrastructure, ensuring its resilience for decades to come. This is not just a business endeavor; it is a commitment to U.S. national security and a sustainable future.”