Local Solar Company Invests $23M, Creates 151 SC Jobs

A South Carolina solar company founded just six years ago is proving that homegrown businesses can compete on the national stage while creating good jobs at home.

Fortified Solar announced it's investing $22.75 million to expand its Greenville County operations, bringing 151 new jobs to the community. The company manufactures custom steel roofing systems with built-in solar panels, turning every roof into a power generator.

CEO Justin Draplin started the company in 2020 in his hometown of Travelers Rest. He began by building tiny homes but quickly pivoted to solar roofing as demand for renewable energy solutions grew.

The expansion includes a new facility on A. D. Asbury Road in Greenville, adding to the company's existing manufacturing plant in Taylors. Both locations are already operational, with new production lines expected to reach full capacity by October 2026.

Fortified Solar's technology integrates photovoltaic cells directly into metal roofing, eliminating the need for separate solar panel installations. This approach appeals to homeowners and businesses looking for cleaner aesthetics and stronger weather protection alongside renewable energy.

The state is backing the expansion with job development credits and a $150,000 grant to help cover building improvements. South Carolina's Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved the incentives, recognizing the project's potential to strengthen the region's growing clean energy sector.

The Ripple Effect

This expansion reflects a broader trend of manufacturing jobs returning to American soil, particularly in the renewable energy industry. Greenville County has become a hub for solar innovation, with multiple companies choosing the area for new facilities and creating hundreds of jobs.

Local officials celebrate Fortified Solar's growth as proof that sustainable businesses can drive economic development. The company's success shows how entrepreneurs can identify emerging market needs and build thriving businesses that benefit their entire community.

For workers in Greenville County, these new manufacturing positions offer stable employment in a growing industry. The jobs support families while contributing to America's transition toward cleaner energy sources.

Fortified Solar's journey from startup to major manufacturer happened in just six years, demonstrating how quickly innovative companies can scale when they solve real problems. The expansion positions the company to meet rising demand for integrated solar solutions across the country while keeping production local.