United Steelworkers Union establishes beachhead in domestic solar industry with support from Biden White House

The United Steelworkers Union (USW) has made a significant move into the domestic solar industry with the support of the Biden White House, marking a major step in unionizing an industry expected to see rapid growth. This development comes as the industry is set to benefit from billions of dollars in tax breaks from Biden’s climate and clean tech legislation.

The Steelworkers have reached a neutrality agreement with Convalt Energy, a solar company planning to build two domestic factories. This agreement will give Convalt’s employees more freedom to form a union, a move that aligns with Biden’s goal of creating union-paying jobs while combating climate change.

“This is a significant breakthrough in a critical part of the US energy sector,” said Ali Zaidi, the White House climate adviser. “It shows that companies are responding to the incentives that President Biden and Vice President Harris have put forward.”

The move also highlights the administration’s commitment to bringing the solar manufacturing supply chain back to the United States. The decision to let tariffs on solar imports expire further supports domestic solar manufacturers, in line with Biden’s tough stance on China.

While the semiconductor industry, which is set to receive significant grants and tax credits, may not be as keen on unionization, the Biden administration is emphasizing its pro-union stance across all industries.

Overall, this development showcases the potential for growth and job creation in the domestic solar industry, with organized labor playing a key role in shaping its future.