When Suntech first announced the plan to open the factory, located in Goodyear, Ariz., solar energy proponents saw it as a sign that solar equipment manufacturing would thrive once again in the country. The U.S. was on a path to increase the use of solar electricity, thanks in most part to government mandates and incentives for renewable energy generation. Selling "made in the U.S.A." products seemed a good marketing move, and it certainly would help developers win government contracts that require the use of American-made goods.