BP Solar Photovoltaic Manufacturing Plant Closes

BP has announced that it is closing its solar-panel manufacturing plant in Frederick, Maryland. BP is moving its solar business out of the United States to facilities in China, India and other countries. Approximately 320 workers will lose their jobs. BP has been unable to sell or lease the unique building and will tear it down. BP acquired a half-interest in the Frederick plant when it bought Amoco Corporation in 1999; it bought the rest from Enron.

President's Note: I first toured this plant in 1983. I was so impressed. It was called Solarex and was described as a solar breeder plant because it used photovoltaics to make more photovoltaics. (Wash Post, 3/27/10)