Catenaa, February 14, 2026 – Tesla is considering a major expansion of its solar manufacturing footprint, targeting up to 100 gigawatts of annual capacity. The scale would exceed current U.S. solar panel output and reshape the domestic renewable energy market.

The plan signals a strategic shift beyond electric vehicles. Tesla has long positioned itself as an energy company. A large solar build-out would deepen that identity and expand recurring revenue streams.

Analysts estimate the investment could reach tens of billions of dollars. While capital requirements are significant, long-term returns could be material. Large-scale production may lower unit costs and improve margins through vertical integration.

The strategy also supports Tesla’s growing energy storage business. Solar panels paired with battery systems create a full clean-energy ecosystem. That ecosystem appeals to utilities, commercial operators, and data centre developers.

Energy demand is rising, driven in part by the growth of artificial intelligence infrastructure. Data centres require steady power and predictable pricing. Domestic solar manufacturing could help meet that demand while reducing reliance on imports.

Supply chain security is another factor. U.S. solar manufacturing has lagged Asia for years. A 100 GW build-out would strengthen domestic production and align with federal incentives tied to clean energy.

For investors, the move raises questions about execution risk and capital allocation. Tesla’s core automotive business faces margin pressure and intensifying competition. Expanding solar at this scale would test management bandwidth.

Still, the initiative underscores Tesla’s long-term thesis. The company is betting that electrification, storage, and solar generation will converge. If successful, the strategy could reposition Tesla at the centre of the U.S. renewable energy transition.

The 100 GW target remains ambitious. Yet it reflects a broader vision that extends well beyond cars.