Work started on Vietnam ’s largest solar cell plant, funded by the US-based First Solar Group, in Ho Chi Minh City ’s Cu Chi district on March 22.

The 1 billion USD plant will have four production lines turning out thin-film solar power panels and a recycling factory.

The first phase of the plant has an investment capital of 300 million USD and is scheduled to be put into operation next year.

First Solar Group President Bruce Sohn said the construction of the plant in the South-East Industrial Zone in Cu Chi district enjoys favourable conditions in power sources, human resources, business environment and support from authorities.

The plant is expected to reduce CO2 emissions and global warming, provide clean energy and generate jobs for local workers, he said.

Initial production output will be for export, Sohn said, noting that First Solar will then prioritise the domestic market, particularly HCM City./.