No use of Chinese solar cells in modules exported to the US: Waaree Energies

Waaree Energies on Sunday sought to clear concerns over a recent determination by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), saying the findings relate only to a limited set of historical import entries and do not affect its ongoing business or exports to the United States.

The clarification comes after media reports on the CBP's determination in EAPA Consolidated Investigation No. 8163, which examined allegations related to the import of solar modules into the US.

In a statement, the company said that following a detailed investigation, including an on-site verification of its manufacturing facility in India, the US customs authority expressly confirmed that Waaree did not export solar modules manufactured using Chinese-origin solar cells to the US.

The company further said the CBP acknowledged its full cooperation throughout the investigation, drew no adverse inference against it and declined the petitioner's request to extend an evasion finding to all of Waaree's imports.

"The determination is limited to a narrow subset of certain historical import entries. Importantly, the determination is not a final adjudication. Under applicable U.S. law, Waaree has the right to seek a de novo administrative review and, thereafter, judicial review before the U.S. Court of International Trade. The Company is currently evaluating all available legal remedies with its U.S. trade counsel," the company said in the statement issued by Whole-time Director and CEO Jignesh Rathod.

Waaree added that its US business continues to operate normally and that there has been no disruption to manufacturing, customer deliveries or commercial operations.

"Waaree remains committed to the highest standards of regulatory compliance, transparency, and governance. The Company's U.S. business continues to operate normally, and there is no impact on ongoing manufacturing, customer deliveries, or commercial operations. Waaree will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities and will provide appropriate updates as and when required in accordance with applicable laws and regulatory requirements," Rathod said.

Waaree, India's largest solar module manufacturer by capacity, has also been investing in manufacturing facilities in the US as it looks to strengthen its foothold in the market and cater to customers seeking compliant domestic and international supply chains.