Georgetown, October 17, 2025
News Summary
GAF Energy has announced the closure of its San Jose location, leading to the loss of 138 jobs. The company will relocate operations to Georgetown, Texas, where it aims to better position itself in key solar markets. The San Jose facility, which opened in 2021, is set to officially close on December 13. Despite the relocation, GAF Energy has not confirmed if positions will be offered at the new Texas site.
San Jose
GAF Energy, a solar technology company headquartered in the Bay Area, is closing its San Jose location and relocating operations to Georgetown, Texas, resulting in a loss of 138 jobs. This move, disclosed in a filing under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, comes as the company seeks to align itself more closely with key markets where solar energy is most beneficial for builders and homeowners.
The San Jose facility, which opened in 2021 and served as a significant site for research, development, and manufacturing, is set to officially close on December 13. Employees affected by the transition include engineers, roofers, electricians, technicians, and managers, which will also include remote employees who reported to the San Jose site.
While GAF Energy has not provided information regarding whether any of the affected employees will be offered positions at the new Texas location, the company expressed gratitude towards the San Jose employees for their contributions and indicated its commitment to assisting those impacted by the relocation.
Strategic Relocation to Texas
The new Texas hub, which commenced operations in May 2024, will centralize the company’s operations, manufacturing, and research and development efforts. This strategic move reflects broader pressures within the solar energy industry in California, compounded by changes to federal tax credits and decreased state incentives.
The 30 percent federal residential solar tax credit, which was recently accelerated to expire by the end of 2025, has exerted additional pressure on the California solar industry. Meanwhile, the state has tightened its solar incentives, causing further challenges for solar installers and manufacturers.
Growth in Texas
Despite the struggles faced in California, Texas is witnessing a construction boom that is drawing solar companies to the state. Earlier this year, Texas accounted for 15 percent of all new home permits in the U.S., indicating a surge in housing construction and an expanding customer base for solar energy solutions.
Georgetown, touted as a tech boomtown, has enticed technology and manufacturing companies due to favorable business incentives and a skilled workforce. It has been named the fastest-growing city in the U.S. for 2022, 2023, and 2024, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Other companies, like Pegatron Corp., a Taiwanese electronics manufacturer, are also establishing major factories in Georgetown, showcasing the city’s increasing appeal.
Background on GAF Energy
GAF Energy operates as a subsidiary of Standard Industries, which owns the roofing producer GAF. The company specializes in solar shingles that serve as an alternative to traditional rooftop panels, prioritizing cleaner aesthetics and simpler installation. As the solar energy market continues evolving, GAF’s move to Texas underscores a significant trend within the industry as it seeks to adapt to changing economic and regulatory landscapes.
Conclusion
The transition from San Jose to Georgetown marks a pivotal moment for GAF Energy as it aims to strengthen its position in a rapidly changing market while supporting its workforce through this challenging shift.
FAQs
What is the reason for GAF Energy relocating its headquarters?
The move aims to align the business and team with key markets where solar energy is most beneficial for builders and homeowners.
How many employees are affected by the closure?
The closure will result in a mass layoff affecting 138 employees, including roles such as engineers, roofers, electricians, technicians, and managers.
When is the San Jose facility set to close?
The San Jose site will shut down on December 13.
Is GAF Energy offering positions in Texas to current San Jose employees?
GAF Energy has not confirmed whether any employees from San Jose will be offered positions in Texas.
What factors are influencing the solar energy industry in California?
The move highlights the pressures facing the solar energy industry in California, exacerbated by federal tax credit changes and reduced state incentives for solar energy.
What is the economic situation for solar companies in Texas?
Texas is experiencing a building boom, attracting home-based solar companies due to its larger pool of potential customers and fewer regulatory hurdles.
Key Features of GAF Energy’s Relocation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Headquarters Location | San Jose, California |
| New Location | Georgetown, Texas |
| Closure Date | December 13 |
| Job Losses | 138 employees |
| Reason for Move | Alignment with markets that benefit solar energy |
| New Hub Operational | May 2024 |
| Federal Tax Credit Changes | Expiration moved to end of 2025 |
| Texas New Home Permits | 15% of U.S. total |
| Growth Recognition | Fastest-growing city in U.S. for 2022, 2023, and 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
GAF Energy Relocates Headquarters from San José to Texas
GAF Energy Relocates Headquarters to Georgetown, Texas
GAF Energy to Relocate Headquarters from San José to Texas
GAF Energy to Relocate Operations from San Jose to Texas
GAF Energy Relocates Operations to Georgetown, Texas
GAF Energy Relocates Manufacturing from California to Texas
GAF Energy Relocates Headquarters to Georgetown, Texas
Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times
- Wikipedia: GAF Materials Corporation
- California Globe
- Google Search: GAF Energy Texas Move
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Google Scholar: GAF Energy Relocation
- Houston Chronicle
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Solar Technology
- Austin American-Statesman
- Google News: GAF Energy Relocation to Texas
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