China’s role in the solar industry continues to come under growing scrutiny. Reports are leaking out about the country flooding the U.S. market with ultra-cheap solar cells and panels. The end of this backdoor practice of exporting these products indirectly through Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand has finally ended. We have finally defeated this practice for good. These nations were found complicit in facilitating this trade, raising concerns about fair market practices in the renewable energy sector.
In October 2024, reuters wrote about one of the largest energy projects in the world, based in Gansu province, China. This site encompasses large, desert-like areas of heliostat mirrors that collect and bounce sunlight to focus and produce energy. China remains resolute in pursuing the development of its renewable energy sector. This effort goes on in spite of the industry’s international condemnation over its protectionist trade practices.
Over the past decade, China has emerged as a juggernaut in the global solar industry. It has taken over the entire production and supply chain for solar technology. This importation of undercutting, sovereign-subsidized solar panels at deeply discounted rates has set domestic manufacturers ablaze with concern. They contend that these practices have caused severe injury to fair competition and the American jobs that the solar sector has created.
The growing participation of Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand in this trade has added a major complicating factor. Similar patterns, they found, in these countries’ support of China’s tariff-evading and market-harming actions to circumvent U.S. tariffs and regulations. The unmasking of their complicity has awakened a strong demand for regulatory reforms. American workers are demanding tougher enforcement of our trade laws to protect American industry.
China’s investment in renewable energy projects like the one in Gansu demonstrates its ambition to lead in sustainable energy solutions. The Gansu project is a demonstration for new, advanced technology. Beyond that, it’s a huge victory for cleaner, greener energy to lead the charge in our worldwide battle against climate change.