Tesla is closing over a dozen installation offices of its solar unit, once known as SolarCity in USA, including in top solar states like California, Arizona and New Jersey. It plans to close between 13 and 14 locations in nine states, while keeping some 60 installation facilities open. The firm has also cut some solar customer service jobs at call centers in Nevada and Utah.
Earlier in June, Tesla said it would slash employee numbers by around 9% and end its residential solar and battery sales agreement with Home Depot Inc as part of a restructuring. The Home Depot partnership was responsible for roughly half of Tesla’s solar sales.
Tesla’s solar business has deteriorated with volumes falling 38% from 836 MW in 2016 to 522 MW in 2017. Most of the decline was self-inflicted, as the company reduced its sales and marketing spend and moved away from a door-to-door sales model. Home Depot spokesman said that the partnership with Tesla would continue through the end of 2018.