Meyer Burger closes plants: 500 jobs at risk – a sad turn of events!

Meyer Burger closes plants: 500 jobs at risk – a sad turn of events!

In a dramatic turnaround, Meyer Burger Technology AG has announced the closure of its plants in Bitterfeld-Wolfen (Saxony-Anhalt) and Hohenstein-Ernstthal (Saxony). With this decision, the company that was once considered a beacon of hope in the solar industry is finally coming to its knees. MDR reports that despite ongoing discussions with potential investors, no solution could be found. In total, this affects around 500 employees, many of whom were laid off or terminated. However, a small team remains behind to coordinate the operation.

On September 1, 2025, operations in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, where around 300 people were recently employed, were discontinued. The signs that the company was in trouble had already been visible for some time: employees had been on short-time work since May 2025, and the Saxony-Anhalt Ministry of Economic Affairs had already pointed out the impending closure in June. The main reasons for the bankruptcy are cheap imports from China and the uncertain funding situation for renewable energies, which have made it difficult for the company to compete.

A serious setback for the solar industry

What's more, Meyer Burger is fighting against bankruptcy not only in Germany, but also in the USA. Wall Street Online explains, that the company has filed for bankruptcy in both countries and is preparing for a massive sell-off of its assets. Investors are facing a total loss, while the SIX Swiss Exchange has already ordered the shares to be delisted. The company's debts are a healthy $500 million to $1 billion, further exacerbating the situation.

The crisis surrounding Meyer Burger has been dragging on for months. Despite repeated deadline extensions, the annual financial statements for 2024 could not be presented, a circumstance that has further shaken trust. The situation worsened in September when the emergency sale of the company's assets was approved. Proceeds from this sale are estimated at $28.7 million.

Demands for political support

Under these conditions, IG Metall is speaking out and calling for a rethink in the political landscape. It's about promoting key sectors and creating fair competitive conditions. Current developments show how necessary support is for companies in the renewable energy sector to ensure a sustainable economic future.

According to the latest data from Destatis Corporate bankruptcies are an increasingly common phenomenon, highlighting the challenges facing many emerging industries. The closures of companies like Meyer Burger are not only a tragedy for the employees affected, but also a warning signal for the entire industry.