US moves to tariff polysilicon while Chinese solar projects grow in Portugal

The White House is preparing a measure, expected in August, to set a minimum import price and impose tariffs on polysilicon and related products. The aim is to curb China's rapid expansion in the strategic sectors of semiconductors and solar energy, protecting U.S. manufacturers of the ultra‑pure silicon material used in chips and photovoltaic panels. The policy follows a year‑long Commerce Department investigation and comes as China supplies about 80% of global solar‑panel capacity. Chinese officials have urged the United States to halt the tariff move.

Meanwhile, Chinese renewable‑energy firm Chint Solar is advancing a large pipeline of projects in Portugal’s Alentejo region, totaling 6.6 GW of solar capacity. A flagship hybrid installation at Montemor‑o‑Novo will combine a 66 MW solar plant, a 45 MW wind farm and a 50 MW battery system, delivering roughly 217 GWh of electricity annually and reducing CO₂ emissions by over 45 kt. Additional solar farms at São Gião, Tapada Grande and Monte Santos are also moving toward licensing, promising job creation and long‑term economic benefits for local communities.