Tesla begins earthworks for $10 billion solar plant in Texas
Tesla has started earthworks in Fort Bend County, Texas, for the Project Crystal Sun solar complex, valued at approximately $10 billion. Production is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2029.
In Texas, near Houston, site preparation is underway in Fort Bend County, including land clearing, grading, and positioning construction equipment. Footage from the site was published on November 9, 2026. An existing residential property is also being used during the site preparation.
Project Crystal Sun is intended to integrate the full production cycle of solar panels: from silicon ingots and wafers to coated cells and finished modules. Construction is planned for 2026–2028, with commercial production set to begin in the first quarter of 2029.
According to documents filed in July, Tesla expects to create 9,712 permanent jobs by 2033. In the first year of the complex's operation, around 1,900 employees are planned. The company had previously considered a site outside Texas.
The project has received local support. In September, the Lamar Consolidated Independent School District unanimously approved tax abatement limits. In late October, Fort Bend County commissioners agreed on an incentives package and related agreements, which may include a tax exemption for equipment for up to 35 years.
Tesla has not yet announced an official groundbreaking ceremony. The visible site preparation marks the project's transition from confidential applications to active earthworks, though further timelines depend on the continued implementation of the plan.
