Spain: Do not rule out imposing tariffs on imported solar products

Spain's acting energy minister, said on Tuesday that she would not rule out imposing tariffs on imported materials used in solar power, despite industry warnings that disrupting the supply of products from China could hinder Europe's process and ability to quickly install clean energy. "We are in a complex situation and we have to find the most appropriate balance,"

Spanish Energy Minister Teresa Ribera said

when asked about possible tariffs.

She added that some imports to Europe "may be priced below cost", hitting industry in Europe and potentially discouraging innovation.

"The Spanish government believes that we must guarantee this balance.." "We have to make sure that this chain does not disappear from Europe," the minister said at a solar industry event in Madrid, without mentioning China directly.

Ribera's comments come as the EU and European governments consider tougher action on imports, while seeking to expand clean-tech manufacturing in Europe and reduce reliance on Chinese products to make a green transition.