In a 4-0 vote, the U.S. International Trade Commission today opened the door for the White House to impose tariffs that could more than double the cost of the imported solar panels so important to the health of our nation’s solar power industry.
The Los Angeles Times reported that the tariffs under consideration are meant to protect a small number of American solar-panel manufacturers. But most of the solar industry opposed the levies, arguing it would hurt the growth of solar projects that help stabilize the power grid and lower electricity prices.
It also would be a blow to the economy: The Solar Energy Industries Association estimates the move could kill about 88,000 solar installation and other jobs—one in every three solar-related jobs in the country. (More than 90% of U.S. solar installations use imported panels.)
Utility Dive reports that the ITC has until November to make formal recommendations to the White House, after which President Trump has two months to decide on a final policy.
This is bad news, but the fight isn’t over. Thanks to the hundreds of CUB Action Network members who sent messages to Congress about this issue. Stay tuned for another opportunity to take action.
