The USA’s recent imposition of punitive tariffs on producers of solar panels and washing machines is an example of rhetoric being followed by action. Trade-restrictive measures often provoke backlashes, and these harbour the risk of erupting into trade wars in which there can only be losers.
The US Solar Energy Industries Association, for instance, is expecting a net loss of 23,000 jobs in this year alone. The punitive tariffs on solar panels and components will also drive up domestic production costs, and probably depress demand for solar panels. This is turn means that fewer solar panel fitters will be required.