Mesa, AZ, April 3, 2024 – Amphenol Industrial Operations, a global leader in interconnect systems, announced that manufacturing operations are underway at its new solar product factory in Mesa, AZ. As of January 2024, Amphenol is manufacturing and shipping U.S.-made solar junction boxes to solar manufacturers and developers across the country on a daily basis.

Amphenol’s Mesa solar product factory can accommodate a dozen state-of-the-art manufacturing lines, each with a capacity of around 100,000 pieces a month. Currently, the first line is operational and producing approximately 3,000 solar junction boxes per day, with two more lines currently being added.

The facility is also equipped to manufacture connectors and other advanced interconnect assemblies for solar arrays. Manufacturing lines to support production of these components are expected to be operational by the end of 2024. To date, Amphenol has hired 70 new team members to support junction box manufacturing efforts in Mesa, a number that is anticipated to grow with customer demand and as additional manufacturing capacity comes online.

“By manufacturing and shipping high-quality, reliable solar products every day at our expanded Mesa facility, we’re building on our mission to help create a more efficient and sustainable U.S. solar supply chain,” said Mark Cunningham, General Manager of Amphenol Industrial Operations. “As we grow our manufacturing footprint and add more local, specialized talent to our Mesa team, we remain committed to helping our customers, partners and the broader community navigate the transition to a cleaner energy future.”

Announced in September 2023, the 58,000 square-foot solar products facility expands Amphenol’s existing manufacturing presence in Mesa and will help the Company support the growing domestic solar market. Amphenol solar products manufactured in Mesa can help developers achieve the IRS’s 10% domestic content bonus adder for manufactured content created by the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. As Amphenol continues to grow its customer pipeline and manufacturing operations in Mesa, it remains committed to helping the broader U.S. solar industry reduce reliance on imported components and work toward supply chain independence.

About Amphenol Industrial Operations

Amphenol Industrial Operations, headquartered in a 30,000 square foot facility in Endicott, N.Y., provides a full range of high reliability power/signal connectors and interconnection systems specifically for the industrial markets including rail/mass transit, process control, automotive manufacturing, heavy equipment, wireless base stations and petrochemical/power generation.

Products include ruggedized-for-industry cylindrical, fiber optic, rectangular, and industrialized versions of Amphenol’s MIL-DTL-5015 cylindrical, MIL-DTL-26482 miniature cylindrical and GT reverse bayonet cylindrical connectors. It employs more than 900 people and is ISO9001, TS96949 and MIL-STD-790 certified. Amphenol Industrial Operations is a division of Amphenol Corporation, Wallingford, CT, one of the largest manufacturers of interconnect products in the world, with 2022 sales topping $12.6 billion.

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At the heart of this transformation is Amphenol Industrial Operations (AIO), with its innovative product, the ePower-Lite. This connector exemplifies the fusion of high-power delivery within a compact, lightweight design. It incorporates Amphenol’s proprietary RADSOK® technology, offering a plethora of configurations to cater to a diverse array of applications.

Advantages of Electrified Farming

Electrified farming introduces a new paradigm in agriculture, emphasizing precision and smart farming practices. The role of advanced connectors, such as those developed by AIO, is becoming increasingly critical. These connectors facilitate seamless field-level management by ensuring reliable and efficient connections for sensors, actuators, and communication technologies. Durability, resistance to environmental stressors, and reliable performance are essential characteristics, given the harsh conditions agricultural machinery often faces.

The ePower-Lite connector, notable for its high-power delivery and compactness, is particularly advantageous for smaller electric motors and applications in challenging environments. Its features include resistance to vibration, suitability for salt and dust exposure, and customization options, including ultrasonic welding for enhanced durability and an IP69K rating for water resistance.

Traditional Farming Versus Electrified Approaches

Electrified farming is progressively recognized as a more sustainable alternative to conventional fossil fuel-dependent methods. It not only contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions but also decreases reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Over time, electric-powered equipment can prove to be more cost-effective due to lower operating and maintenance expenses. Governments worldwide are facilitating this transition through incentives and subsidies, encouraging the adoption of electric machinery in agriculture.

Furthermore, advancements in battery technology are making electric vehicles and equipment more efficient and viable for agricultural purposes. Electric machinery tends to operate more quietly compared to traditional engines, thus reducing noise pollution. Precision agriculture tools powered by electricity, including electric tractors and autonomous vehicles, empower farmers to enhance operational efficiency and minimize resource wastage.

Despite the growing trend, the complete electrification of agriculture is an evolving journey. The technology continues to advance, and farmers are evaluating the practical and economic benefits of shifting to electric equipment. The development of necessary infrastructure, such as charging stations in rural areas, is crucial for the widespread adoption of electrified farming practices.

Amphenol’s Commitment to Electrification

Amphenol Industrial Operations is at the forefront of supporting the electric revolution within the agricultural sector and beyond. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and providing reliable solutions, Amphenol Industrial is poised to play a pivotal role in the ongoing growth and evolution of the global electric technology landscape.