How will tariffs affect solar panels & inverters in 2025?

In summary, as of April 2025 we see solar panel prices up by 20–40% (depending on origin), inverters up ~10–30%, and battery costs up significantly (~30% or more) compared to pre-tariff levels. These increases correlate directly with the reciprocal tariff rates imposed (34% on China, 36–49% on SE Asia, etc.), underlining the tariffs’ impact.

Which solar companies do not incur import tariffs?

Other “Domestic” Suppliers: A few manufacturers with U.S.-based production or assembly – such as Hanwha Qcells (Georgia factories), First Solar (Ohio), Mission Solar (Texas), and Silfab (Washington) – do not incur these import tariffs on their U.S.-made panels. They have an effective price advantage now.

What is the new tariff policy for inverters?

Under the new policy, all imports face at least 10% tariff, and specific countries face more – China-made inverters now see ~34% tariff, European inverters ~20%, South Korea 25%, etc.

Are microinverters tariff-free?

Some microinverters and power electronics, which often were made in Asia, are similarly affected – however, companies like Enphase (U.S.) anticipated tariffs and diversified manufacturing to Mexico and India in recent years, meaning a portion of inverter supply is tariff-free.

How much does a Chinese inverter cost?

With April’s import duties, Chinese inverter prices have climbed by roughly a third. For example, a Chinese string inverter that was $0.15/W may now be offered around $0.20/W (reflecting the 34% duty). In absolute terms, a 5 kW (5000 W) inverter unit that cost $1,000 might increase to ~$1,330 after tariffs if sourced from China.

How much does a 5 kW inverter cost?

In absolute terms, a 5 kW (5000 W) inverter unit that cost $1,000 might increase to ~$1,330 after tariffs if sourced from China. European and other foreign-made inverters also nudged upward but less dramatically; a high-end German SMA inverter that sold for, say, $0.20/W might rise to ~$0.24/W with the 20% EU tariff.