This article from the Wall Street Journal details the import resrictions on the largest solar panel suppliers. These restrictions, combined with tariffs dating back to the Trump administration, and the general difficulties with supplies, shipping, and labor have caused disruption in the construction pipeline for many of the largest projects in the US, and have caused headaches and layoffs among some installers. This is typical of what we sometimes see of the US federal policy, with different parts of the government working against themselves. In the recent IRA, new incentives and goals were put into place to accelerate the transition to clean energy, while these import restrictions are dampening the industry. The manufacturers claim the accusations of labor abuses are unfounded, and for some reason, it is taking years before there is a determination by the US govt.
https://www.wsj.com/articles/solar-panel-shortage-snarls-u-s-green-energy-plans-11669671279
Here at Power Trip Energy, we have been blessed with good predictable supplies of modules from Sunpower. We have been Sunpower dealers since 2010, and have been so happy with their quality and reliability. These last couple of years, we have been subject to supply shortages with various electrical supplies at times, but we have maintained a good supply of Sunpower pv modules. We have significantly increased our inventory of all parts on hand since early 2020 to avoid surprises. Sunpower products are not subject to these import restrictions, and in the past, they have won accolades for labor policy and clean materials handling practices in their manufacturing process.
Sometimes the solar industry is a bumpy ride, and insiders sometimes call it the solar coaster. If you work with us, we make it our goal that your only excitement will be from the production of reliable clean power. Please call us today if you would like to lean more.
8.6 KW Phase II Sunpower Array in background, Sept 2022, with the 5.4 KW Phase I Sunpower Array in foreground, Oct 2014