Vroom Solar, a solar energy startup company, broke ground today on its new headquarters and manufacturing facility in Springfield, investing $2.4 million and creating 35 jobs.
“We’re thrilled that an innovative company like Vroom Solar is starting up and creating jobs right here in our state,” said Governor Mike Parson. “Missouri’s skilled workforce and low costs are encouraging growth, including in our thriving technology industry. We look forward to seeing this company succeed in Springfield as it invests in the community and benefits Missourians in the area.”
Vroom Solar’s new location in Springfield will provide a dual purpose as the company’s headquarters and a manufacturing facility. Automated packaging processes at the new facility will enable the company to rapidly produce their patent pending portable, battery-free, DIY solar energy kits.
"Vroom Solar is excited to be building our headquarters in Southwest, Missouri,” said Luke Phelps, Founder and CEO of Vroom Solar. “Vroom will provide the world's first patent-pending sunlight direct generator that manages sun power for small scale needs. We will be launching our product the end of this year with national distributors already signing up to carry our products.
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, there are 134 solar energy companies currently operating in Missouri. The solar industry has created 2,778 jobs statewide. More than 50,000 homes are powered by solar energy statewide. The current amount invested in Missouri’s solar industry is $1.3 billion.
“It’s always exciting to see companies establishing in our state and creating new opportunities for Missourians,” said Michelle Hataway, Acting Director of the Department of Economic Development. “Our state continues to set itself apart as an ideal location for cutting-edge employers like Vroom Solar. We’re proud this company chose Missouri for its headquarters and appreciate all our partners who worked to make this significant project a reality.”
For this expansion, Vroom Solar will benefit from the Missouri Works Program, a tool that helps companies expand and retain workers by providing access to capital through withholdings or tax credits for job creation.
About Vroom Solar
Vroom Solar is a solar energy startup company that provides portable, sunlight direct, battery-free, DIY solar power kits. The patent pending mounting solution allows sunlight to directly power the portable generator for on-the-go energy. Kits can be used to power containers, box trucks, trailers, outdoor buildings, and even off-the-grid housing. Vroom Solar donates every 25th DIY solar power kit to schools, nonprofits, and underserved communities.
To learn more about Vroom Solar, visit vroomsolar.com.
About the Missouri Department of Economic Development
The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) works to create an environment that encourages economic growth by supporting Missouri’s businesses and diverse industries, strengthening our communities, developing a talented and skilled workforce, and maintaining a high quality of life. As one team built around the customer and driven by data, DED aspires to be the best economic development department in the Midwest. Through its various initiatives, DED is helping create opportunities for Missourians to prosper.
For the latest updates on DED’s current or future programs and initiatives, visit DED’s website.
About the Missouri Works Program
As the state’s number one incentive tool for expansion and retention, the Missouri Works Program helps businesses access capital through withholdings or tax credits to embark on facility expansions and create jobs. This program can also help businesses purchase equipment to maintain its facility in Missouri.