U.S. Solar Tariffs 2025 and Their Market Impact

OK. Let’s talk about the New Tariffs. What Happens to Solar, and Battery Energy Storage ?

By Adam Glick, Solar Sherpa, NATiVE Solar

Texas homeowners, brace yourselves—new import tariffs just landed, and they’re already sending ripples through the solar and battery storage world. But don’t panic—this isn’t doom-and-gloom territory. In fact, it might just be the wake-up call our industry needs to build smarter, more resilient energy systems.

What’s Going On with These Tariffs?

In early April, the U.S. government announced a blanket 10% tariff on *all* imported goods (effective April 5), with even steeper rates on countries like China (54% total), Vietnam (46%), and the EU (20%). The goal? Bolster domestic manufacturing and correct trade imbalances.

Sound familiar? That’s because it is—this isn’t the first time we’ve had to recalibrate. Remember the 2018 solar tariffs? We adjusted, innovated, and ultimately came out stronger. We’re ready to do it again.

What This Means for Solar + Battery Projects

Here at NATiVE Solar, we’ve long prioritized sourcing and recommending best-in-class, US-manufactured solar system components. Even so, almost no equipment manufacturers in this space use 100% domestically manufactured components and materials. So, yes, most solar panels and batteries are likely going to cost more. If you’re in the middle of planning a project, you might see some price increases. But here’s the good news: demand is still high, incentives are still strong, and solutions are still on the table.

Here’s the breakdown:

Short-term price hikes: Expect equipment costs to rise, especially for systems relying on overseas components.
Long-term opportunities: This could drive more domestic manufacturing and open the door for U.S.-based innovation.
Project planning matters more than ever: Lock in pricing now, explore battery energy storage options, and work with a solar partner who can pivot.

But There’s a Silver Lining—Especially in Texas

We’ve always known Texas was special. (We’re biased, sure—but we’re also right.) We’ve got abundant sunshine, a grid in desperate need of modernization, and customers who don’t want to wait around for someone else to fix things. There also continues to be a strong level of continued sustainable/renewable energy technology investment in the Texas State House and Senate. Support for expanded solar development and investment isn’t a left-right political thing here.

That’s why we believe solar + storage is still the best play, no matter what’s happening in Washington. And if you’re wondering how to time your investment, our advice is simple: start now while incentives are good and supply chains are still moving.

What About Batteries?

Battery systems—especially lithium-ion—rely heavily on imports, so yes, costs may spike here too. But as we shared in our recent blog on 2025 solar and storage trends, the energy storage market isn’t slowing down. In fact, battery demand is skyrocketing as homeowners and businesses look for grid independence and backup protection.

Bonus? New VPP programs like the GridBoost program just announced by Enphase+Octopus in Texas let you earn from your battery, making your ROI even sweeter—even if battery prices go up slightly.

Here’s What You Can Do Right Now:

Talk to a professional solar practitioner: We’ll help you evaluate your project timeline and see how tariffs might impact your quote.
Explore battery options: We’ll help you design for grid backup, peak savings, and potential VPP revenue.
Get ahead of price changes: If you’re planning a 2025 install, now’s the time to lock it in.

Why Choose NATiVE Solar?

We’ve been installing solar in Texas since 2007, and we’ve weathered every policy swing and market shift that’s come our way. We’re also proud members of the Amicus Solar Cooperative, a nationwide network of expert, ethical solar providers.

Our team doesn’t just sell solar—we design systems that deliver value over decades. And we’re upfront about what’s happening in the market because that’s what partners do.