From FREYR Battery to T1 Energy: A Strategic Pivot Toward American Solar and Battery Dominance

FREYR Battery (NYSE: FREY) is officially rebranding as T1 Energy Inc., marking a significant strategic shift in the company’s mission to become a vertically integrated leader in U.S. solar and battery storage. The rebrand becomes effective on February 19, 2025, with the company’s stock ticker set to change from FREY to TE on March 3, 2025.

The Market Opportunity Behind the Rebrand

The rebranding reflects a critical moment in American energy infrastructure. Over 80% of new U.S. electricity capacity added in 2024 came from solar and battery solutions—a trajectory that highlights the urgency for domestic manufacturing capacity. T1 Energy is positioning itself to capture this expanding market by building a complete U.S. supply chain for both solar modules and battery storage systems, rather than relying on international sources.

Daniel Barcelo, CEO and Chairman, frames the pivot as a response to national energy security needs: “The U.S. needs domestic supply chains and manufacturing capacity to harness its abundant solar resources. T1 is committed to building that capacity.” The company aims to support the power demands of AI data centers, industrial reshoring, and nationwide electrification—all drivers of unprecedented electricity demand.

Current Production Status and Expansion Timeline

T1 Energy’s solar module manufacturing facility in Wilmer, Texas, now operating under the name “G1 Dallas,” has ramped up to employ more than 1,000 workers. Production is tracking on schedule, demonstrating the company’s ability to execute at scale.

Expansion plans are accelerating in parallel. Site selection for a planned U.S. solar cell manufacturing facility, designated as “G2,” is progressing toward finalization in Q1 2025, with construction targeted to begin in mid-2025. This two-facility strategy—modules at G1 Dallas and cells at G2—creates a more vertically integrated production chain.

Strategic Positioning and Execution

The rebrand to T1 Energy signals more than a name change; it represents a fundamental reorientation toward American energy leadership. The company completed a transformative transaction in December 2024 that positioned it as one of the leading solar manufacturers in the U.S., with complementary battery storage capabilities. Headquarters are now based in Austin, Texas, with plans to continue expanding domestic operations while exploring asset optimization opportunities in Europe.

As markets digest this strategic evolution, T1 Energy’s success will hinge on executing its production ramps, securing the G2 site, and scaling manufacturing capacity in line with surging demand for renewable energy infrastructure.