CEA Update on U.S. Battery Policy Developments
This briefing focuses on the tariffs affecting battery energy storage. Policy changes affecting the solar portion of the Section 301 tariffs are addressed in a separate briefing.
The tariffs affect a range of clean energy imports including EVs, solar PV, battery energy storage, and inputs for these. This briefing focuses on the tariffs affecting battery energy storage. Policy changes affecting the solar portion of the Section 301 tariffs are addressed in a separate briefing.
On May 14, 2024, the Biden Administration announced changes to section 301 tariffs on Chinese products. For energy storage, Chinese lithium-ion batteries for non-EV applications from 7.5% to 25%, more than tripling the tariff rate. This increase goes into effect in 2026. There is also a general 3.4% tariff applied lithium-ion battery imports.
Lithium-ion battery modules, packs, and container blocks are generally categorized under the import code 8507.6020 if they are used for non-EV applications. As such, we believe that this is the code that this tariff change will apply to.
Industry data shows that importers of lithium battery systems now face increased customs scrutiny, with classification codes determining exact rates. Many battery packs assembled in the U.S. still rely on imported cathodes, anodes, and electrolytes in the electric vehicle sector.
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