The municipality of Flen in central Sweden has been chosen by Swedish manufacturer of thin-film solar cells Midsummer as the location for its new 200 MW mega factory for the production of thin film solar cells for the European market. The factory, which is partially, will have a maximum funded by the EU Innovation Fund annual production capacity of 200 MW of CIGS thin film solar cells - thin, light, flexible and with an extremely low climate footprint. It is expected to commence production in 2026 and, when fully operational, will employ around 200 people.

Midsummer then begins to adapt the premises and install machinery for an expected start of production in 2026. It is expected to reach maximum production capacity in 2028. Midsummer will focus on light and environmentally sustainable solar panels for primarily low load-bearing commercial and industrial roofs that cannot withstand the weight of traditional silicon panels.

The premises in central Flen have hosted industrial activity since the 1860s. Bolinder-Munktell manufactured combine harvesters there before it became Volvo's global center for the repair of heavy engines. The property is owned by the municipality of Flen.

The premises are well adapted for Midsummer's operations and the location in the municipality of Flen with the region's industrial history offers good conditions for the recruitment of staff.