SIMIC

Uncertainty about a probe into Chinese solar-panel manufactures evading tariffs has caused projects to be cancelled, with domestic installations expected to be slashed by 46 per cent this year and next, according the Solar Energy Industries Association.

As risks spread through the power sector, Chicago-area NiSource said it was planning to shut down its last two coal units at its Schahfer Generating Station to end of 2025 from 2023 because of delays related to the ongoing investigation on solar tariffs.

"The US Commerce Department circumvention investigation related to the import of solar components from select geographies has brought uncertainty and delays to the solar panel market," said the Merrillville, Indiana company south of Gary, adding the probe was delaying its planned solar projects as well.

"The company anticipates that most solar projects originally scheduled for completion in 2022 and 2023 will experience delays of six to 18 months."