The Renewable Energy Test Centre (RETC) plans to evaluate the commercial uptake of next-generation n-type photovoltaic cells. The solar industry needs these new n-type photovoltaic cells to keep cutting costs and increasing efficiency. We examine the potential of solar photovoltaic cell designs and potential hurdles to broader use.
Scientists view n-type solar photovoltaic cell designs as the next step in photovoltaic advancement. In 2013, German researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems created a new TOPCon structure for high-efficiency n-type silicon solar cells. Effective carrier transport and well-passivated surfaces helped this cell design achieve high open-circuit voltage, fill factor, and efficiency.
TOPCon has become a trendy topic in the solar industry. Top module manufacturers use TOPCon cells. LONGi Solar invests substantially in p-type TOPCon modules. Although other manufacturers like Trina Solar, JA Solar, Jollywood Solar Technology, and Jinko Solar. invest in n-type solar photovoltaic cells.
Advantages of N-Type Solar Photovoltaic Cell
Solar industry makers know n-type photovoltaic cells can enhance system efficiency. High-efficiency photovoltaic modules based on n-type HJT and IBC cell designs are expensive to construct. They make up a small fraction of the market. N-type TOPCon cell production resembles PERC. Using improved PERC assembly lines, manufacturers can mass-produce next-generation TOPC on modules.
The N-type TOPCon cells have less light- and temperature-induced deterioration than p-type mono PERC cells. Better performance in hot and low-light environments makes them highly demanding.
Advanced Technology in N-Type Cells Has Potential Risk
Emerging solar photovoltaic cell technology is riskier than tried-and-true methods. Engineers and investors see p-type mono PERC photovoltaic modules as a solid, low-risk technology.
Despite being resistant to LID (light-induced degradation) and LeTID(light- and elevated temperature-induced degradation), n-type TOPCon photovoltaic cells are vulnerable to UV-induced deterioration (UVID).
The Future of Solar!
Despite dominating the market for years, p-type mono PERC cell designs are reaching their physical limits. By using n-type TOPCon cells, module makers can increase lab and mass production cell efficiencies.