Swiss solar company Meyer Burger has shut down its solar module factory in Arizona, abruptly ending its U.S. manufacturing efforts. The closure, announced in May 2025, affects 282 employees who have been laid off. The company cited a lack of funding as the main reason, months after starting production with German-made solar cells at the site.
Meyer Burger is currently in talks with bondholders to restructure its finances. The negotiations focus on two convertible bonds maturing in 2027 and 2029. The company has faced growing financial pressure over recent years.
In late 2023, Meyer Burger announced plans to cut about 20% of its workforce but had hoped the Arizona plant would drive future growth. However, despite securing nearly $40 million in bridge financing last December, the company could not compete with cheaper solar imports from China.
The U.S. plant closure marks a major setback for Meyer Burger’s global expansion plans. It highlights the challenges European clean energy companies face in competing with low-cost Chinese manufacturers dominating the global solar market.
The future of the Arizona facility remains uncertain as Meyer Burger focuses on restructuring. The move underscores the financial and competitive hurdles in the clean energy sector, especially for companies trying to expand manufacturing outside China.