THE European Commission said Thursday it will investigate suspected dumping of solar panels by Chinese producers, drawing a warning from China that restrictions on its solar exports would hurt the global clean energy sector.

The investigation into one of the biggest import sectors ever targeted by the European Commission stems from a complaint by a group of European solar companies, led by Germany’s SolarWorld.

The group, comprising members in Germany, Italy, Spain and other European Union countries, says Chinese solar firms have been selling panels below market value in Europe.

China’s solar firms warned in July of a trade war, calling on their government to strike back against the impending investigation. Chinese producers include Yingli Green Energy, Suntech Power Holdings Co., Trina Solar Ltd. and Canadian Solar Inc.

But China’s immediate response to the announcement of an investigation was more measured and did not mention any retaliatory steps.

“China expresses deep regret” about the decision, Ministry of Commerce spokesman Shen Danyang said in a statement on the ministry’s Web site.

“Restricting China’s solar panel products will not only hurt the interests of both Chinese and European industry, it will also wreck the healthy development of the global solar and clean energy sector,” said Shen.

He urged the European Union to “seriously consider China’s position and proposals, and to resolve friction over solar panel trade through consultations and cooperation.” (SD-Agencies)