Chinese polysilicon makers have successfully lobbied their government to investigate whether European producers of the material that’s used in solar panels have been dumping their product on the Chinese market, undercutting prices. 

This follows a hefty tariff imposed by the U.S. earlier this year on Chinese solar panels amid allegations that China was flooding the market and driving American polysilicon manufacturers out of business. 

Earth Times has a good synopsis of the battle that is pitting China against the West here. 

For Hawaii consumers, the trade dispute could translate into higher prices for solar.

(Photo credit: ProVision Solar)