Republican Voters Champion Domestic Solar Manufacturing for Energy Independence
A new national poll reveals robust backing among Republican voters for utility-scale solar energy, especially when the technology is produced domestically and free from Chinese connections.
The survey, conducted by Fabrizio, Lee & Associates and commissioned by First Solar Inc., surveyed 800 Republicans, Republican-leaning independents, and voters who supported former President Donald Trump—designated as “GOP” in the study.
Results indicate a majority of these respondents favor utility-scale solar, with support surging significantly under specific conditions. Fifty-one percent of GOP voters endorse utility-scale solar, compared to opponents, yielding a margin of over 20 percentage points. When informed that solar panels would be American-made with no Chinese ties, approval jumped to 70%, while opposition fell to 19%.
The poll further shows broad consensus on integrating solar into broader energy strategies. Sixty-eight percent of respondents assert the U.S. requires all electricity generation sources—including utility-scale solar—to reduce costs, whereas 22% disagree. Nearly eight in ten voters, or 79%, believe the government should permit all electricity generation forms, including solar, to compete without political interference—against 11% who oppose this stance.
The findings suggest voting behavior could be influenced by these issues. A majority of GOP voters stated they would support a congressional candidate advocating for an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy that includes solar. Similarly, half expressed greater likelihood of backing a candidate committed to U.S.-based solar panel manufacturing initiatives.
Pollsters Tony Fabrizio, David Lee and Travis Tunis noted the results align with voter priorities around cost and independence: “GOP voters want America to have energy independence and for their electric bills to be affordable,” they explained. “Voters view utility-scale solar as part of that solution, particularly when panels are made domestically.”
First Solar executive vice president Samantha Sloan emphasized the data underscores strong support for American solar manufacturing. She stated the company champions a “commonsense approach” leveraging diverse energy sources to foster economic growth and energy security.
First Solar has produced solar panels in the United States since 2002, operating five facilities across Alabama, Louisiana, and Ohio, with a sixth under construction in South Carolina. The company anticipates new operations beginning late in 2026, expanding domestic production capacity to 17.7 gigawatts by 2027.
The survey was conducted January 19–21, 2026, with a margin of error of ±3.46%.
