Tennessee Energy Company Creates 1,000 Jobs in Major Expansion

A Tennessee energy company founded just three years ago is creating 1,000 new jobs and investing $78 million in a massive expansion that shows how quickly homegrown innovation can take root.

Create Energy announced it's acquiring a massive 338,000-square-foot facility in Orlinda that will become its primary manufacturing hub. The company will create 973 jobs at the new Robertson County location and invest more than $76 million to scale up production of renewable energy infrastructure.

The Portland-based company's existing facility won't be left behind. It's being transformed into a welcome center, dedicated research and development hub, and production site for global partnership products, adding 30 more jobs and $2 million in investment.

Founded in 2023 by industry leader Dean Solon, Create Energy has rocketed from startup to major manufacturer in record time. The expansion will bring the company's total Middle Tennessee footprint to over 475,000 square feet.

Solon has called Tennessee home for over 30 years, and his enthusiasm for the state shows. He describes the new facility as "pretty darn awesome" and promises the company is moving fast with solutions that are "truly best in class."

The Ripple Effect

This expansion reaches far beyond factory walls. Over 1,000 families across Sumner and Robertson Counties will benefit from new career opportunities in the growing renewable energy sector.

Local leaders are celebrating what the investment means for their communities. Robertson County Mayor Billy Vogle praised Create Energy as a tremendous partner, noting the growth brings quality jobs and momentum for the region's future.

The project also strengthens Tennessee's position as a leader in clean, reliable energy development. State officials point to the expansion as proof that the state's skilled workforce and business-friendly climate attract innovative companies ready to scale up fast.

Tennessee Valley Authority is partnering on the project alongside state and local development boards, showing the collaborative spirit that helps companies thrive in the Volunteer State.

One thousand new jobs in renewable energy is exactly the kind of future worth building toward.