[Solar PV: EU Restricts Funding for Renewable and Storage Projects Using Inverters from High-Risk Countries]

Published: May 5, 2026 09:19

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The European Commission has decided to restrict EU funding—including through the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF)—for solar, wind, and battery energy storage projects utilizing inverters from high-risk countries, namely China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, citing cybersecurity risks.

The policy, communicated to financial institutions, took effect on May 1, 2026. While initial media reports highlighted restrictions on photovoltaic solar projects, it is now confirmed that battery energy storage systems (BESS) are also included in the directive. The industry is awaiting the official publication of the new guidelines, as the Commission does not currently plan to issue a public announcement or press release on the matter.

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