For solar energy to thrive globally, there is a need to build consensus on acceptable forms of government support for industry

WASHINGTON, DC – Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), today commented on the U.S. Department of Commerce's antidumping and countervailing duty determinations in the final phase investigation of solar products from China:

"As the end of these investigations near, it's not too soon to take stock of what has been achieved, consider whether opportunities were missed, and, most importantly, start thinking about how to move forward.

"While today's decision rightly shows that the U.S. will protect its rights in the global trading system, trade litigation alone is not enough to solve the complex challenges that exist between the U.S. and China. What is immediately clear is that for solar to thrive globally, there is a need to build consensus on acceptable forms of government support for industry.

"Prior to these trade cases, the U.S. and Chinese solar industries enjoyed a strong, productive working relationship. For both sides to succeed going forward, we must return to our collaborative roots at both the industry and government levels.

"Indeed, this collaborative spirit is alive and well elsewhere in the global renewable energy industry. This week, SEIA, other trade groups, and multinational companies joined forces to call for mutually-beneficial, long-term trade solutions through the World Economic Forum's Green Growth Action Alliance.

"If the opposing parties come to the table, even at this late date, and work together to help grow this global industry, the possibilities are endless."

The final anti-dumping rates range from 18.32% to 31.73% for participating companies, and 249.96% for non-participants.

The countervailing duties rates range from 14.78% to 15.97%.

About SEIA:
SEIA® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is working to build a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA® works with its 1,000 member companies to make solar a mainstream and significant energy source by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy.