Tonalli aims to compete with Chinese solar panels

While most of the solar panels used worldwide come from China, a factory in Puebla is seeking to make inroads into the domestic energy industry with products made in Mexico. The facility, called “Tonalli,” already produces photovoltaic modules for schools, social programs, and clean energy projects.

Tonalli’s growth reflects the progress of an industry that is beginning to expand in Mexico amid rising energy demand. The plant has the capacity to manufacture more than 200,000 solar panels per year and is part of the strategy to develop domestic energy technology under the “Made in Mexico” label.

The solar energy market in Mexico has gained momentum in recent years due to industrial growth, the expansion of manufacturing parks, and the need to reduce electricity costs.

In Puebla, solar panel production has also begun to be used in public infrastructure. According to data presented by state authorities, over the past year, photovoltaic modules were installed in 800 schools that had electricity supply issues.

Local solar panel manufacturing also opens opportunities for the creation of specialized jobs, technological development, and new supply chains related to clean energy.

The Mexican energy sector maintains growth expectations due to the advancement of nearshoring and the establishment of industries requiring greater electricity capacity.