US solar import inquiry moves forward after ITC ruling

US solar

The US solar import inquiry will continue after the ITC found reasonable indication of injury. The US solar import inquiry targets crystalline silicon PV cells from India, Indonesia, and Laos. As a result, the US solar import inquiry could trigger antidumping and countervailing duties.

Scope, countries, and claims

Petitions allege dumping and government subsidies that undercut US manufacturers. The case focuses on Chinese-owned operations in Indonesia and Laos, and firms in India. However, the inquiry covers cells, whether or not assembled into modules.

The Alliance for American Solar Manufacturing and Trade led the filings. Members include First Solar, Mission Solar Energy, and Qcells. Therefore, the coalition spans thin film and crystalline producers across several states.

Regulators will examine sales below normal value and countervailable subsidies. They will also assess whether imports distort prices and harm domestic capacity. Meanwhile, US producers argue duties are needed to halt a “race to the bottom.”

Timeline, duties, and industry impact

Commerce will issue a preliminary countervailing ruling by 13 October. It will follow with a preliminary antidumping ruling on 26 December. Final determinations will come in 2026, after additional investigations.

Potential remedies include countervailing and separate antidumping duties. These measures could raise import costs from the three countries. As a result, developers may face higher module prices and tighter supply.

US buyers have leaned on Asia to meet project timelines. However, policy shifts continue to reshape sourcing and build-out plans. Therefore, procurement strategies must hedge duty risk and tax incentive deadlines.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Trade risk is back at the center of US solar procurement. Watch preliminary rates in October and December, which will steer 2026 contract pricing. Developers should diversify suppliers and sync interconnection milestones with SMART-style or IRA timelines.