Illuminate USA in Pataskala, OH, Powers the Future of American Solar Manufacturing
Illuminate USA was established to meet the growing demand for high-quality, American-manufactured solar panels. Formed as a joint venture between Invenergy – the largest privately held independent power producer in the U.S. – and LONGi – a global leader in solar manufacturing – Illuminate USA combines American energy leadership with global manufacturing expertise.
“As the largest single-site solar panel manufacturer in North America, we’re proud to advance renewable energy growth, domestic manufacturing and job creation,” says Frank Zhu, CEO of Illuminate USA.
The company is headquartered in Pataskala, Ohio, inside a 1.1 million-square-foot advanced manufacturing facility, one of the most sophisticated in the world. The facility assembles ready-to-install, bifacial solar panels for commercial applications using advanced automation and precision processes.
“We use advanced automation, precision assembly systems and rigorous quality testing to produce high-efficiency, durable bifacial solar panels,” Zhu says. “Our bifacial design captures sunlight from both sides, maximizing energy output and performance for commercial projects across the U.S. Our facility and advanced manufacturing processes allow us to produce panels at scale while maintaining consistent quality and reliability, positioning Illuminate USA as a leader in American solar technology.”
Choosing Pataskala
Zhu made the pivotal decision in recent years to leave the Bay Area of California and move his family to the Licking County area, drawn by the region’s innovation, inclusiveness and sense of community. With more than 16 years of global leadership experience in the solar and renewable energy industries – including top executive roles at companies such as GCL Solar Energy and Hanergy Holding Group – Zhu brought the expertise needed to help build Illuminate USA from the ground up.
Zhu has positioned the company and Ohio as leaders in advanced manufacturing and solar panel production, demonstrating a deep commitment to investing in local talent, partnering with schools and nonprofits, and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations. Under his leadership, Illuminate USA serves as a model for how innovation, domestic production and community partnership can thrive together.
“We chose Pataskala in Licking County for its people, proximity and partnerships,” Zhu says. “The region’s strong manufacturing heritage and skilled workforce provided a solid foundation for our operations, while organizations like JobsOhio and One Columbus have been key partners in helping us establish and grow.”
More than 1,500 skilled associates work in a clean, high-tech environment designed for efficiency and collaboration. Pataskala’s location within a day’s drive of half the U.S. population also ensures easy access to customers.
“Illuminate USA is proud to be part of Central Ohio’s growing solar and advanced manufacturing sector.
Our work goes beyond producing solar panels; it’s about building a sustainable future, creating opportunities for our local workforce and strengthening communities,” Zhu says.
Recent Successes
In just a short time, Illuminate USA has grown from concept to a fully operational advanced manufacturing hub. Highlights include:
Launching production at the Pataskala facility in February 2024, a major milestone for Ohio’s renewable energy economy.
Creating more than 1,500 premium-wage jobs for associates representing 16 Central Ohio counties.
Building partnerships with local schools, training institutions and workforce organizations to prepare the next generation for careers in manufacturing.
Supplying panels for major solar projects in Ohio, including Invenergy’s Hardin Solar Energy Center in Hardin County, Cadence Solar Energy Center in Union County and Pleasant Prairie Solar Energy Center in Franklin County.
“By reshoring advanced solar manufacturing, we are helping to bring high-tech production back to the U.S., invest in long-term American jobs and strengthen the nation’s energy independence,” Zhu says. “Through this work, we are also helping to reestablish demand for U.S.-manufactured solar materials and components, supporting the return of a robust domestic solar supply chain. We continue to invest in our people and in Ohio’s role as a leader in advanced manufacturing. And we look forward to helping shape a stronger domestic energy future, one solar panel at a time.”
Get to Know Licking County
Want to learn more about living and working in Licking County, OH? Check out the latest edition of Livability Licking County, Ohio.