July.17.2025
July.17.2025
Author: Mary Corey
Date of Publication: July 09, 2025 at 10:39 AM
Publication: Automotive News
Kia is installing a massive solar-powered canopy at its West Point, Georgia manufacturing plant to protect vehicles from hail and advance its renewable energy goals. The structure, built by VPS, will span 3.2 million square feet and feature 17,000 solar panels—making it one of the largest solar-integrated hail protection systems in the U.S. auto industry.
You can read the full article here: Automotive News link »
• Dual-purpose design: The canopy shields vehicles from damaging hail while generating up to 13 megawatts of electricity, enough to power 20–30% of the plant.
• Sustainability investment: The solar panels will contribute to Kia’s goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2045 and shifting to 100% renewable energy by 2040.
• Federal incentives: The project is eligible for clean energy tax credits through the Inflation Reduction Act, enhancing its long-term financial value.
