Georgetown, Texas, October 16, 2025
News Summary
GAF Energy, a solar technology company, is relocating its headquarters from San José, California, to Georgetown, Texas, with plans to lay off 138 employees. The move, effective December 13, aims to capitalize on better market opportunities in Texas. While the company consolidates operations, it plans to hire 265 new employees over the next decade, supported by a $3.24 million incentive package from Georgetown. This transition highlights a trend of companies leaving California for more favorable business environments, despite the state’s strengths in talent and innovation.
California
GAF Energy, a tech company based in San José, California, specializing in roof shingles integrated with solar panels, will relocate its headquarters to Georgetown, Texas, effective December 13. This move, outlined in a notification document filed with state officials, will result in the layoff of 138 employees, including technicians, engineers, and managers.
The decision to transfer operations comes as GAF Energy identifies better market opportunities in Texas, rather than any significant issues within California’s business environment. The company’s San José headquarters, which was opened in 2021 for research, development, and solar panel manufacturing, will cease all operations.
The layoffs will impact both in-person and remote employees at the San José facility. As mandated by the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act (WARN), GAF Energy is obligated to issue a notice 60 days prior to a mass layoff. This measure ensures employees have sufficient time to prepare for the transition ahead.
Experts maintain that although many companies, including notable ones such as Tesla and Charles Schwab, have departed California citing stricter regulations, high taxes, and expensive labor, California continues to offer substantial advantages as a business hub. The state remains a leading economy, rich in talent and innovation, providing a stark contrast to the narrative of being business-unfriendly.
GAF Energy is a subsidiary of Standard Industries. Previously, the company opened a manufacturing facility in Texas in 2021, and the new headquarters will consolidate operations to further enhance efficiencies and collaboration. This strategic shift aligns with the company’s vision as it seeks to grow its footprint in the solar energy sector, evidenced by its innovative product – solar shingles that embed solar panels directly into roof shingles for practical applications.
To incentivize this relocation, Georgetown, Texas, approved a $3.24 million incentive package which includes tax rebates and cash incentives. During the approval stage of these incentives, GAF Energy projected to hire 265 employees in high-tech jobs over the next decade, with expectations of total investments exceeding $100 million.
GAF Energy’s transition to Texas highlights a growing trend of companies relocating from California to more business-friendly environments. Texas currently leads the nation in housing permits and renewable energy production, drawing attention from various firms seeking operational advantages.
Background Context
In recent years, there has been significant corporate migration from California, with many businesses highlighting a challenging regulatory environment and high operational costs. This trend includes major firms like Tesla, Charles Schwab, and Bed Bath & Beyond, all of whom have criticized aspects of California’s business climate. Despite this trend, economists urge that California retains key strengths, particularly in its capacity to foster talent and innovation within various industries.
Key Features of GAF Energy’s Move
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Relocation Date | December 13 |
| Number of Employees Laid Off | 138 |
| New Headquarters Location | Georgetown, Texas |
| Incentives Approved | $3.24 million |
| Expected New Hires | 265 employees |
| Total Investment | Over $100 million |
FAQ
What is GAF Energy relocating?
GAF Energy is relocating its headquarters from San José, California to Georgetown, Texas on December 13.
How many employees will be laid off due to the move?
The company will lay off 138 employees in California, which includes technicians, engineers, and managers.
Why is GAF Energy moving to Texas?
The decision to move is motivated by better market opportunities in Texas, not due to an unfavorable business environment in California.
What incentives has Georgetown, Texas offered GAF Energy?
Georgetown approved a $3.24 million incentive package to attract GAF Energy, including tax rebates and cash incentives.
What impact will the move have on GAF Energy’s operations?
The company aims to consolidate operations at the new Texas headquarters to enhance efficiencies and collaboration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Austin American-Statesman
- Los Angeles Times
- San Antonio Express-News
- SFGATE
- San Francisco Chronicle
- Wikipedia: GAF Energy
- Google Search: GAF Energy
- Google Scholar: GAF Energy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: GAF Energy
- Google News: GAF Energy
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
