Tariffs threaten renewable energy development and rural economies

Despite record-high wind and solar generation, the U.S. renewable energy sector faces uncertainty. Tariffs and potential repeals of federal funding are creating roadblocks to the further buildout of energy projects.

Wind, solar, and other renewable energy projects have helped revitalize rural communities by creating jobs, generating new tax revenues, and providing lease payments to landowners.

However, energy projects rely on globally sourced components due to the U.S. supply chain's inability to meet rising demand. To avoid tariffs, solar developers are stockpiling panels, but the impact is o...