It always bewilders me how people think that walls protect. The american manufacturers of solar panels are banding together to legally attack the chinese solar panel manufacturing industry, with claims of unfair trade practices and dumping.
While walking the solar power conference exhibition floor, we noticed a sign “1megawatt of solar at $0.89 per watt”. This was the most blatant sign of the significant price reductions that we’ve encountered in the past year. From a level of near $2, we are far below $1 now. As a result, american manufacturers lose money with these prices, even considering any bump up for local value (less shipping) and they are attempting to use the courts to resolve the issue.
If the Chinese are selling cheaper into the USA than other markets, it may be because of larger volumes. If it is not, then I agree its a targeted approach which should be challenged. However, like every other industry, its cheaper to make solar panels in China, and that should be no surprise. The fact that the Chinese industry is getting huge support from the central government is simply testament to forward thinking policies to promote new industries. The Solyndra situation is tragic, yet its because a huge risk is taken when we bet on revolutionary technologies rather than what is tried and true. But then again, what is tried and true is not as sexy to support.
It will be interesting to see the results of the court process. I don’t really believe they will succeed, yet I respect their desire to do something during this depressed market. I might suggest that working on the value chain, going upmarket, distinguish your product through messaging which provides it with greater value in the eyes of customers..these might be better uses of time and money than a court case, but then again, they gotta do what they gotta do.
Sass