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What Trump's Tariff On Solar Panels Means For Pennsylvania

Amy Sisk
/
StateImpact Pennsylvania
Richard Tumushime, an electrician with Pittsburgh-based Energy Independent Solutions, works with a crew to put the finishing touches on wiring a solar panel system at the new Forest Hills Municipal Building.

A solar panel that arrives in the United States from overseas now comes with a higher price tag.

President Donald Trump last week imposed a 30 percent tariff on imported solar panels. The move comes at the request of U.S. solar manufacturers, who seek a level playing field amid competition from places like China, where the government subsidizes solar manufacturing.

Not all are thrilled with the move. Many companies that install solar panel systems are worried the tariff will lead to increased costs and scare away potential customers, resulting in less demand and job losses.

Click here to read more about how Pennsylvania's solar industry will be affected by the tariff, and listen to this piece:

 

This story was published in partnership with StateImpact Pennsylvania, a collaboration between WESA, Allegheny Front, WITF and WHYY, to cover the commonwealth’s energy economy. Read more stories at StateImpact Pennsylvania's website.