In North America, solar panel mesh demand has shifted notably from large utility installations to an increasing share of rooftop and parking-canopy projects. U.S. federal incentives under the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and extended Production Tax Credit (PTC) have triggered a wave of greenfield utility farms, but the burgeoning residential segment is driving imports of lighter, aesthetic mesh options.
Solar installers in the U.S. report that nearly 30 percent of new rooftop PV systems in 2024 included decorative powder-coated mesh in colors matching building facades. While stainless steel remains the default for high-durability applications, architectural aluminum mesh with custom finishes is gaining popularity for low-profile installations. Imports of color-treated mesh from Canada have climbed 22 percent year-over-year as buyers seek North American content to satisfy domestic-content requirements under the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Canada’s domestic mesh producers have expanded capacity, adding two new automated lines in Ontario focused on stainless-steel welding and passivation. These facilities aim to supply both local installers and cross-border demand, leveraging superior corrosion-resistance standards developed for harsh northern climates. Canadian exports to New England and the Pacific Northwest are growing, supported by coordinated logistics that deliver within one week of order placement.
Mexico has also emerged as a competitive mesh exporter to the U.S. Sun Belt region. With nearshore factories in Nuevo León and Guanajuato, Mexican producers offer short lead times—often under ten days—and preferential duty treatment under USMCA. Several large developers have signed multi-year contracts to source panel mesh for solar farms in Texas, Arizona, and California, citing reduced freight costs and predictable supply.
Despite strong demand, the North American mesh market faces challenges, including periodic stainless-steel plate shortages and rising steel scrap prices. To hedge against raw-material volatility, some integrators are pre-booking supply at fixed index-linked prices. Meanwhile, industry associations are urging mesh makers to invest in alternative alloys and recycled-content steel to stabilize costs and reduce environmental impact.
Post time: Jun-10-2025