Trading into a Bright Energy Future

Open global trade, supported by a well-functioning “quality infrastructure”, has been an important factor in the rapid deployment of solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies around the world. Keeping markets open is critically important to ensure that all countries can benefit from solar PV, a pillar of the low-carbon, sustainable energy system needed to help achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and fulfil the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. This report by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) looks at how open, transparent and inclusive trade policies can support cost reductions, deployment of components and job creation in the solar PV sector, strengthening the critical infrastructure needed to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting efforts to rebuild the world economy. The report examines the need for countries to develop a robust quality infrastructure to promote safe trade in solar PV goods and services. This would reduce the risks of unreliable products entering the value chain, and ensure stability for investors and other participants in the value chain. The report also looks at the need to strengthen international cooperation, and demonstrates how IRENA and the WTO can support efforts to promote a secure and inclusive global solar PV market through the effective use of quality infrastructure.