WASHINGTON, D.C. – Concerned  of a ripple effect across the entire U.S. solar energy industry, Rhone Resch, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), has warned SEIA’s membership that the worsening solar dispute between the United States and China threatens the future progress of solar energy in America:

“Without a negotiated settlement, we’re facing a double whammy this year:  Significant job losses across the entire U.S. solar supply chain and higher prices to American consumers.  If imposed, the tariffs sought by SolarWorld – in excess of 165 percent on China and 75 percent on Taiwan – could result in a sharp increase in the cost of solar energy in the United States.  It’s time to end this needless saber rattling.  There are common sense ways to address SolarWorld’s competitiveness concerns while ensuring the continued growth of the U.S. solar market – and one good way to do that is through a settlement proposal offered by SEIA.  As an organization, we remain committed to developing a win-win solution, which would resolve SolarWorld’s latest complaint, in addition to the broader U.S.-China trade conflict.  It’s time to negotiate a settlement – not litigate one.  As a nation, too much is at stake for us to fail.” 

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About SEIA:

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2014, the Solar Energy Industries Association® is the national trade association of the U.S. solar energy industry. Through advocacy and education, SEIA® is building a strong solar industry to power America. As the voice of the industry, SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies to champion the use of clean, affordable solar in America by expanding markets, removing market barriers, strengthening the industry and educating the public on the benefits of solar energy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.

Media Contacts:

Ken Johnson, SEIA Vice President of Communications, [email protected] (202) 556-2885 
Samantha Page, SEIA Press Officer and Communications Manager, [email protected] (202) 556-2886