Solar Supply Chain Prices Show Mixed Trends as Raw Material Costs Provide Support

The global solar supply chain experienced mixed price movements this week, with several key materials showing slight increases while some components remained stable. Although demand remains relatively weak during the seasonal low period, tighter supply and rising upstream costs are providing support for prices.

EVA Prices Remain Stable with Potential Upside

EVA resin prices remained unchanged this week as both supply and demand stayed relatively quiet.

On the supply side, production availability continues to decline, while downstream demand has entered a seasonal slowdown. However, rising prices of upstream materials, particularly LDPE, may provide additional cost support.

Market participants expect EVA prices could see a modest increase in the coming week as suppliers attempt to pass on higher production costs.

PET Backsheet Prices Rise on Higher Oil Costs

Solar backsheet PET prices increased by around 3.6% this week, supported mainly by higher raw material costs.

International oil prices strengthened amid geopolitical tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, improving cost-side support for polyester-related products.

However, weak downstream demand and increased future PTA supply may limit further price growth. Market confidence remains cautious as more PTA production capacity is expected to resume in August.

Aluminum Frames See Mild Price Growth

Aluminum frame prices for solar modules rose approximately 1.3% this week.

Supply remained relatively stable, while aluminum inventories continued to decline due to limited arrivals of aluminum ingots and rods.

Demand remained moderate, supported by steady export activity and regular purchasing from downstream manufacturers. Aluminum prices are expected to fluctuate within a narrow range in the short term.

Copper Prices Stay Elevated Amid Tight Supply

Copper prices used in solar cables increased by around 1.0% this week.

Maintenance activities at smelters reduced available supply, while traders maintained higher premiums due to tighter market conditions.

However, high absolute prices have weakened purchasing enthusiasm among downstream buyers. Copper prices are expected to remain at relatively high levels with short-term fluctuations.

Mounting Material Prices Receive Cost Support

Hot-rolled steel prices for solar mounting structures edged up by around 0.1%.

With production expected to decline and raw material costs providing support, market prices may move slightly higher in the near term.

Improved trading activity and stronger macro expectations could help stabilize the steel market.

Solar Glass Market Remains Stable

Solar glass prices remained unchanged this week.

Recent industry capacity reductions have helped ease supply pressure, while continued losses have encouraged manufacturers to increase quotations.

However, both supply and demand are expected to decline in the coming period, keeping the overall market relatively stable.

Market Outlook: Cost Pressure May Continue to Support Solar Prices

Overall, the solar supply chain is showing early signs of price stabilization after a prolonged period of cost pressure.

While weak seasonal demand continues to limit price increases, reduced supply, higher energy costs, and rising upstream material prices may provide support for key components.

The market is expected to remain stable with selective price increases across materials such as EVA, PET, aluminum, and copper.