Solar power industry has warned policymakers not to impose tariffs on imports, amid fears that disrupting supplies of products from China could seriously damage Europe’s ability to rapidly install clean energy.
The call comes as Brussels and European governments consider tougher action on imports as they seek to expand clean tech manufacturing in Europe and reduce the reliance on China for products needed for the green transition.
The European Commission launched an investigation that could lead to tariffs to protect EU producers against cheaper Chinese electric vehicle imports. Meanwhile, Germany is examining options including trade protections to shield local solar manufacturers from falling global prices.
In a statement, SolarPower Europe said trade barriers on solar would be a “lose-lose strategy” and urged them to instead help local manufacturers grow – including by making it easier to support local factories under EU state aid rules.
