US Launches Probe Into Imported Wind Turbines, Tariff Threat Looms

The Trump administration has opened a national security investigation into imported wind turbines and parts, raising the prospect of fresh tariffs on clean-energy equipment.

According to a notice, the US Commerce Department launched the probe on August 13 to determine whether reliance on foreign-made turbines undermines domestic production and threatens national security.

The move follows the administration’s recent decision to include wind components under the 50 percent steel and aluminum tariff regime. The US wind sector is particularly vulnerable, with blades, drivetrains, and electrical systems largely sourced from abroad. Research firm Wood Mackenzie estimates that US wind-related imports totaled USD 1.7 billion in 2023, with 41 percent coming from Mexico, Canada, and China.

It may be mentioned that President Donald Trump has been a vocal critic of wind energy, frequently citing visual concerns near his golf courses and making unsubstantiated claims about impacts on wildlife. Since taking office, he has halted new offshore wind leases, paused federal wind permits, and warned against renewables raising energy prices.

The recent action expands the list of industries under review through Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which empowers the president to restrict imports deemed a security risk. Trump has already imposed duties on steel, aluminum, copper, and automobiles, while other probes target pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, aircraft, minerals, and lumber.