Solar energy firms in SEZs pitch for equalisation levy on domestic supplies

The industry is pushing for an equalisation levy of 1-2 per cent on solar equipment supplied to the domestic market from SEZ units, whereas the BCD could be in the range of 15-20 per cent

A group of solar energy firms on Friday pitched for an equalisation levy on solar equipment supplies from special economic zones (SEZs) for domestic use to bring them at par with manufacturers in non-SEZ areas.

The government is contemplating imposing basic customs duty (BCD) on solar equipment to discourage imports, mainly from China.

Once the BCD is imposed, it would also apply to domestic solar equipment manufacturing units located in SEZs.

The industry is pushing for an equalisation levy of 1-2 per cent on solar equipment supplied to the domestic market from SEZ units, whereas the BCD could be in