The Ultimate Guide to Choosing TOPCon PV Cell

As the world transitions towards renewable energy sources, the demand for solar power has skyrocketed. The solar industry is projected to grow from $253.69 billion in to $436.36 billion by , at a CAGR of 6% (Fortune Business Insights). At the forefront of this growth are two competing solar cell technologies: TOPCon and PERC.

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TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) and PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) are the latest advancements in solar cell design, offering improved efficiency and performance. As homeowners and businesses explore solar panel installations, understanding the key differences between these technologies is crucial for making an informed decision.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of TOPCon and PERC solar cells, comparing their efficiency, cost, manufacturing complexity, high-temperature performance, lifespan, and more. By exploring the pros and cons of each technology, as well as real-world performance data from leading manufacturers, you’ll gain valuable insights to determine which solution best suits your needs.

What are TOPCon Solar Cells?

TOPCon, short for Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact, is a cutting-edge solar cell technology that is rapidly gaining prominence in the photovoltaic (PV) industry. This innovative design represents a significant advancement over traditional solar cell architectures, offering enhanced efficiency and performance.

At the core of TOPCon solar cells lies a unique structure that utilizes a thin oxide layer and a polycrystalline silicon layer to create a highly efficient passivated contact. This design allows for improved charge carrier extraction, resulting in higher energy conversion rates. As explained by Renewsys World, TOPCon cells are a type of n-type solar cell, made with a semiconductor material doped with phosphorus, which contributes to their superior performance.

One of the key advantages of TOPCon solar cells is their potential for higher efficiency rates compared to conventional solar cell technologies. According to Solarwatt, TOPCon cells have the potential to become the new standard in the PV industry, offering efficiency levels that can surpass those of the widely adopted Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) technology.

What are PERC Solar Cells?

PERC, or Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell, is a technology that improves the efficiency of conventional solar cells. In a PERC solar cell, the rear surface is passivated with a dielectric layer, which reduces recombination losses and reflects unused light back into the cell. This results in an increase in energy generation of about 6-12% compared to standard solar cells (SunPower).

The key advantage of PERC technology is its ability to boost efficiency without significantly increasing manufacturing complexity or cost. PERC cells have become the industry standard for residential and commercial solar panels due to their excellent balance of performance and affordability (Aurora Solar).

Efficiency Comparison: TOPCon vs PERC

One of the key advantages of TOPCon solar cells is their higher efficiency compared to PERC cells. According to SunGold Solar, TOPCon boasts an impressive efficiency rate of 26.1%, while PERC cells have an efficiency of around 22.5%. This higher efficiency translates to more power generation from the same surface area of solar panels.

Real-world testing data backs up the efficiency edge of TOPCon technology. A study by Fraunhofer ISE compared TOPCon and PERC solar products and found that TOPCon modules achieved efficiencies over 25% in mass production, outperforming standard PERC panels. The higher efficiency of TOPCon allows solar arrays to produce more electricity while using less roof or ground space.

Cost and Manufacturing Complexity

When it comes to cost and manufacturing complexity, PERC solar cells have a slight edge over TOPCon technology. The production process for PERC cells is less complex and more established, which translates to lower upfront costs. According to an analysis by Eltel Networks, the manufacturing costs for PERC cells are approximately 10-15% lower than TOPCon cells.

However, it’s important to consider the lifecycle costs as well. While TOPCon cells have a higher initial cost due to their more complex production process, their increased efficiency can lead to lower levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) over the lifetime of the solar panel. Canadian Solar reports that TOPCon modules can offer over 3% additional electricity generation compared to PERC, which can offset the higher upfront cost in the long run.

Performance in Hot Climates

One of the key advantages of TOPCon solar cells is their superior performance in hot weather conditions compared to PERC cells. According to a study by RenewSysWorld (https://www.renewsysworld.com/post/why-topcon-solar-panels-outperform-mono-perc-multi-in-hot-weather), TOPCon panels can maintain higher efficiencies at elevated temperatures due to their unique cell structure.

PERC solar cells, on the other hand, tend to experience more significant efficiency losses as temperatures rise. While PERC panels still perform reasonably well in hot climates, their output can degrade by 3-5% or more when operating above 25°C (77°F). This makes TOPCon a better choice for installations in regions with extended periods of high temperatures.

In addition to better heat tolerance, TOPCon cells also exhibit lower annual degradation rates compared to PERC. Industry estimates suggest TOPCon degrades at around 0.25% per year, while PERC cells may degrade 0.5-0.7% annually. Over the 25-30 year lifespan of a solar panel, this can result in a notable difference in total energy output favoring TOPCon.

Lifespan and Degradation Rates

Both TOPCon and PERC solar cells are designed for long operational lifespans, typically warranted for 25-30 years by manufacturers. However, their degradation rates over time can differ. A study by pv-magazine found that TOPCon modules should not exhibit higher degradation levels than leading PERC modules over a 30-year lifetime.

In general, solar panels experience an annual degradation rate of around 0.5% under ideal conditions, according to SolarMagazine. However, factors like high temperatures, humidity, and poor maintenance can accelerate degradation. While TOPCon cells may degrade slightly faster initially, their long-term degradation rates are expected to be comparable to PERC over a 25-30 year lifespan.

Pros and Cons of TOPCon Solar Cells

TOPCon solar cells offer several key advantages over traditional solar cell technologies:

Advantages:

• • Higher efficiency ratings, typically 22-24% compared to 19-22% for PERC cells, resulting in more power output per square foot. (Source)

• • Lower temperature coefficients, meaning better performance in hot climates. TOPCon cells degrade less at higher temperatures.

• • Simpler structure and manufacturing process compared to other high-efficiency cell technologies like HJT or IBC.

Disadvantages:

• • Higher upfront costs due to advanced materials and more complex production compared to standard PERC cells. (Source)

• • Relatively new technology with less long-term field data on reliability and degradation rates over 25+ years.

• • Manufacturing complexity is still higher than for standard PERC cells, requiring more process steps. (Source)

Pros and Cons of PERC Solar Cells

PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) solar cell technology offers several advantages over traditional crystalline silicon cells, but also has some potential drawbacks to consider:

Pros:

• • Higher efficiency, typically 1-2% more than standard cells due to improved light capture and reduced recombination losses. This translates to more power output from each solar panel. (Source)

• • Better high-temperature performance and reduced efficiency losses in hot climates, thanks to the rear passivation layer reflecting more infrared light. (Source)

• • More affordable than premium high-efficiency cell technologies like heterojunction or IBC cells.

Cons:

• • Slightly more complex manufacturing process than standard cells, though still simpler than most premium high-efficiency options.

• • Potential for higher initial light-induced degradation (LID), though this is mitigated in modern PERC cells. (Source)

• • Lower efficiency potential compared to emerging next-generation cell architectures like TOPCon, HJT, and IBC.

Optimal Applications for Each Technology

When it comes to choosing between TOPCon and PERC solar cells, the optimal application depends on your specific needs and priorities. TOPCon solar cells excel in situations where maximizing energy efficiency is the top concern, such as residential installations with limited roof space or commercial projects aiming to generate the highest possible output.

According to Rayzon Solar, TOPCon cells generally offer higher efficiency rates than PERC cells due to their advanced passivation technology and superior temperature performance. This makes them an attractive choice for hot climates or installations where space constraints necessitate squeezing every available watt out of the available surface area.

On the other hand, PERC solar cells strike a balance between cost and performance, making them a compelling option for larger-scale utility projects or installations where budget is a significant factor. While not as efficient as TOPCon, PERC cells offer a more cost-effective solution for generating substantial amounts of clean energy without breaking the bank.

Real-World Performance Comparisons

When it comes to real-world performance, lab tests and field data from top solar panel manufacturers provide valuable insights. According to Clean Energy Reviews, TOPCon solar panels from SunPower and LG have demonstrated superior efficiency and energy yield compared to conventional PERC panels in controlled testing environments.

SunPower’s Maxeon 7 TOPCon panels, for instance, achieved an impressive 22.8% efficiency rating under standard test conditions, outperforming most PERC panels on the market. LG’s NeON R series, another TOPCon offering, has also consistently ranked among the highest-performing solar panels in third-party tests conducted by organizations like the Photovoltaic Evolution Lab (PVEL).

In real-world field tests, TOPCon panels have proven their mettle, particularly in hot and sunny climates. Data from Panasonic’s TOPCon modules installed in Arizona showed a mere 2% degradation after four years of operation, highlighting their exceptional resistance to high temperatures and long-term reliability.

The Future of TOPCon vs PERC Solar Cells

As the solar industry continues to evolve, the battle between TOPCon and PERC solar cell technologies is expected to intensify. According to industry analysts, TOPCon technology is poised to become the dominant player in the market as its costs fall below those of mono-PERC cells.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL) Spring Solar Industry Update projects that while PERC will still hold a 50% market share in , its dominance will wane as TOPCon and other high-efficiency cell designs gain ground. Module efficiencies are expected to rise across all technologies, with TOPCon leading the charge.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) also notes the expanding dominance of PERC with almost 60% market share, but highlights the emergence of TOPCon and other new, even higher-efficiency cell designs. As the demand for high-performance and cost-effective solar solutions continues to grow, the industry is likely to see a shift towards these next-generation technologies.

Which is Right for You?

When deciding between TOPCon and PERC solar panels, there are several key factors to consider for homeowners and businesses:

For homeowners prioritizing maximum energy production and efficiency, TOPCon panels may be the better choice. Their higher efficiency ratings (up to 1% higher than PERC) can translate to more electricity generated from the same roof space. However, this increased performance comes at a higher upfront cost.

For businesses focused on balancing cost and performance, PERC panels offer an excellent middle ground. While not as efficient as TOPCon, PERC technology is more affordable while still providing solid energy output and reliability. PERC may be preferred for large commercial installations where upfront costs are a major consideration.

If you live in a hot climate region, TOPCon’s better temperature coefficient gives it an advantage, as it can maintain higher production levels versus PERC in extreme heat. For cooler regions, this benefit diminishes.

Ultimately, your decision should weigh factors like your budget, expected solar production needs, local climate patterns, and projected payback timelines. An experienced solar installer can guide you through analyzing these variables for your specific situation.

Conclusion

TOPCon cells offer superior efficiency and performance, making them an excellent choice for maximizing energy production, especially in residential installations where space is limited. However, PERC cells strike a great balance between cost and performance, often being the more cost-effective option for larger commercial or utility-scale projects.

Ultimately, the decision between TOPCon and PERC will depend on your specific needs and priorities. If maximizing energy output and long-term performance is the primary concern, TOPCon panels are the way to go, despite their slightly higher upfront cost. For those on a tighter budget or with ample space for a larger installation, PERC panels offer a compelling mix of efficiency and affordability.

As solar technology continues to evolve, it’s likely that TOPCon cells will become more dominant in the long run, thanks to their superior efficiency and potential for further advancements. However, PERC cells will remain a strong contender, especially as manufacturers continue to refine and optimize the technology.

The efficiency and performance of solar cells have been constantly improving in recent years, one such development that has gained a lot of attention in the industry is the TOPCon solar cells (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact).

Recently TOPCon cell has been unstoppable in getting a historic innovation breakthrough, In October , Jinko revealed that the efficiency of TOPCon solar cell has exceeded 26.89%, which is the most efficient solar cell in the world.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at TOPCon solar cell from：

• Working Principle
• Advantages
• Cost Components
• Comparison with PERC Mono

What Is A TOPCon Solar Cell?

TOPCON stands for Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact, TOPCON solar cell is a type of solar cell that uses a tunnel oxide layer to passivate the contact between the front and rear layers of the cell. 

This passivation layer reduces the recombination of charge carriers, improving the cell’s efficiency. TOPCon solar cells are also known for their excellent spectral response and low-temperature coefficient, making them ideal for use in hot and humid climates.

N-Type TOPCon Silicon Cells

Cells built on an N-type silicon substrate offer improved performance over the more common P-type silicon due to a greater tolerance to impurities which increases overall efficiency. In addition, N-type cells have a lower temperature coefficient compared to both mono and multi-P-type cells. N-type cells also have a much lower rate of LID or light-induced degradation and do not generally suffer from LeTID (light and elevated temperature-induced degradation) which is a common problem with P-type cells.

TOPCon or Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact refers to a specialized rear-side cell passivation technique that helps reduce the internal recombination losses in the cell and boosts cell efficiency. The process has been available for several years but is now becoming the new industry standard as manufacturers strive to increase efficiency and performance.

How Do TOPCon Solar Cells Work?

TOPCon solar cells work by using a combination of layers and materials to capture and convert sunlight into electricity. The front layer of the cell is usually made of a highly-doped silicon material, while the back layer is made of a low-doped silicon material. The tunnel oxide layer is placed between the front and back layers to passivate the contact.

When sunlight hits the cell, it creates electron-hole pairs in the front layer. These charge carriers are then separated by an electric field and collected by metal contacts on the front and back of the cell. The passivation layer reduces the recombination of the charge carriers, which improves the efficiency of the cell.

Why Are TOPCon Solar Cells Revolutionary?

TOPCon solar cells have several advantages over traditional solar cells. Firstly, they have a higher efficiency, which means that they can generate more electricity from the same amount of sunlight. This makes them ideal for use in large-scale solar power plants, where maximizing efficiency is crucial.

Secondly, TOPCon solar cells have a lower temperature coefficient than traditional solar cells. This means that their efficiency does not decrease as much in hot and humid climates. This makes them ideal for use in regions with high ambient temperatures, such as the Middle East and Africa.

Finally, TOPCon solar cells have an excellent spectral response. This means that they can generate electricity from a wider range of the solar spectrum, including the blue and green parts of the spectrum. This makes them ideal for use in areas with high levels of diffuse light, such as cloudy or overcast regions.

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What Are the Advantages of  TOPCon Technology?

Manufacturing process: TOPCon cells are manufactured using the same machines as P-type cells, eliminating the need for high capital investment and reducing manufacturing costs.

High Efficiency: Compared to P-type solar cells, n-type solar panels TOPCon cells can convert sunlight more efficiently and achieve higher conversion efficiencies of up to 28%, which is higher than the maximum efficiency of PERC cells.

TOPCon cells use ultra-thin silicon oxide and silicon nitride as the tunneling layer, which can significantly reduce the surface compound loss and increase the open-circuit voltage, and its conversion efficiency has already exceeded 25%, with a theoretical efficiency upper limit comparable to or even higher than that of HJT.

Low Degradation: Compared to PERC cells, TOPCon cells have lower power degradation in the first year and after 30 years of use, extending the life of the module.

Low-temperature coefficient: TOPCon cells perform better at high temperatures with lower output power loss, giving them higher efficiency in hot climates.

Bifacial power generation: TOPCon cells also support bifacial power generation, which further enhances system power generation. In bifacial solar panels, TOPCon cells provide a better power boost, contributing to improved bifacial module performance.

Low-light performance: N-type IBC solar panels show higher efficiency in low-light conditions, extending daytime power generation and improving long-term performance.

Compatibility: TOPCon technology has good compatibility with existing PERC production lines and can be retrofitted and upgraded at low cost, which helps to quickly realize large-scale production and reduce costs.

Cost reduction path: With the advancement of material and process technologies, such as wafer thinning, metallization paste improvement, and equipment localization, the cost of TOPCon cells is expected to further decrease.

Cost Components of  TOPCon Cells

Why are TOPCon cells the most expensive of the common cells on the market? Generally speaking, the cost composition of solar cells can include the following aspects. We have listed a few of the most significant cost factors in TOPCon’s cell manufacturing process, and you can learn more about their percentages in the chart below.

• Material costs: Semiconductor materials (e.g., silicon, chalcogenide, etc.), conductive materials, glass substrates, back sheets, etc., are required for manufacturing cells. Also POE film, EPE, EVA materials, and other auxiliary materials
• Manufacturing process costs The cost of equipment, labor, and energy in the manufacturing process.
• Design and R&D Costs: Involves the costs required for cell design and technology development, as well as testing and validation costs.
• Production Efficiency: The efficiency and throughput of the production process affect costs, and higher production efficiencies can often reduce manufacturing costs per unit of product.
• Management and operational costs: A range of expenses such as management, sales, and marketing.
• Governance and Regulatory Costs: Compliance with environmental regulations and industry standards may add some costs.

TOPCon Solar Cell Vs. PERC Solar Cell

According to third-party organizations’ overall forecasts and current TOPCon solar cell production, in the future TOPCon will become one of the three mainstream cells with PERC and HJT cells, as high power generation efficiency is the trend of the market. After the cost breakthrough, the TOPCon solar cell may even become the highest yield, the most widely used solar cell.

What is the difference between TOPCon and PERC solar cells? &Why is TOPCon better than perc? TOPcon offers higher efficiency and better bifacial performance but requires more silver, which can increase production costs. The competition and ongoing research and development in the solar industry will likely continue to shape the relative market positions of these two technologies in the coming years.

TOPCon and PERC are two different types of solar cells that are used in the photovoltaic industry. TOPCon stands for Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact, while PERC stands for Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell.

Competitiveness

According to the Fraunhofer Institute study, TOPCon solar cells are making strides towards competing with PERC cells. However, to gain more market share, TOPCon needs to work on improving its efficiency and reducing production costs.

Efficiency

TOPCon solar cells have a higher efficiency rate compared to PERC cells. Specifically, TOPCon boasts an efficiency of 26.1%, while PERC has an efficiency of 24.5%. Higher efficiency is generally desirable because it means more electricity can be generated from the same amount of sunlight.

Bifaciality

Bifaciality is a measure of how effectively a solar cell can capture light from both the front and rear sides. TOPCon cells have a higher bifaciality factor, at 85%, than PERC cells with a 70% bifaciality factor. This can make TOPCon cells more versatile in certain applications where sunlight can be reflected onto the rear side of the cell.

Metallization

One important consideration is the amount of silver required in the metallization process for these cells. TOPCon cells require more silver, around 130-150mg per piece, while PERC cells use less silver, approximately 85mg per piece. This increased use of silver can contribute to higher production costs for TOPCon cells.

Solar Cell Type Formation Efficiency Cost Performance in High Temperatures Mono PERC Similar to mono-crystalline cells, with an added passivation layer at the rear Outperforms traditional mono-crystalline cells Marginally more expensive, justified by improved efficiency Demonstrates superior performance in high temperatures compared to traditional mono-crystalline cells TOPCon Utilizes a tunnel oxide layer to passivate contacts on the rear side Generally boasts higher efficiency This can be higher due to increased manufacturing complexity, offset by efficiency gains Displays commendable performance in high-temperature conditions HJT Integrates amorphous silicon layers with crystalline silicon, forming heterojunctions Often achieves higher efficiency Initially higher due to more intricate manufacturing processes, potential cost reduction over time due to economies of scale Generally excels in high-temperature conditions due to lower temperature coefficients

TOPcon VS Mono PERC Production Impact

TOPcon VS Mono PERC production impact is reflected in the following areas: the PERC Mono and TOPCon processes have different requirements for production equipment.  Although the PERC process and TOPCon are somewhat similar in principle, the production process and equipment cannot be fully shared, and generally only non-core equipment such as chemical treatment, flocking, and some testing can be shared.

Cell Structures

-PERC Cells: PERC cells have a passivated emitter rear contact structure. The passivation layer, oxide layer, and polysilicon layer are significant components of PERC cell structure.

-TOPCon Cells: TOPCon cells have a different structure, especially in terms of the passivation layer, oxide layer, and polysilicon layer.

Production Challenges

-Both PERC and TOPCon cells present challenges in the production process, such as difficult process preparation and high product discreteness.

-High requirements on process environment, technology, and industrial digital management are needed for both technologies.

Production Line Characteristics:

-The TOPCon cell process closely resembles semiconductor MOS (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) process characteristics.

-Clean room level requirements differ between TOPCon and PERC cell production lines.

Mono PERC cells have passivated contacts on the front side, while TopCon cells have passivated contacts on the back side. Due to the backside contact design, additional steps may be required to manufacture TopCon cells, which may impact production costs.

Equipment Requirements:

Due to the differences in cell structures and production processes, the equipment requirements for PERC and TOPCon cells are distinct.

While some principles may be similar, sharing is generally limited to non-core equipment, including chemical processing, velvet (possibly referring to wafer polishing), and some testing equipment.

Production Line Yield
-TOPCon is 98.5%, and now there is a big difference in what each company announces, from 90-95%.

-PERC is about 98%.

Number of Processes
-PERC consists of 11 processes

-TOPCon consists of 12 processes

Equipment Investment
-The investment cost for PERC is $ Million/kW

-TOPCon is $ Million/kW.

Conclusion

TOPCon solar cells have proven to be a game changer in solar energy, offering significantly higher efficiency and improved performance compared to traditional solar cells. With its potential to reduce the cost of solar energy, TOPCon technology has the potential to play a crucial role in the transition toward a more sustainable and carbon-neutral energy system. As research and development continue, we can expect to see even more impressive advancements in TOPCon technology, making solar energy an increasingly viable and attractive source of renewable energy for the future.

Sungold bifacial solar panels utilize advanced TOPCon solar cells, delivering high efficiency and durability. They are the ideal choice for various applications, including pergolas, parking lots, carports, and greenhouses.

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FAQs About TOPCon Solar Cell

Q: Why is TOPCon better than PERC?
A: TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) is an n-type solar cell with higher efficiency and voltage than PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell), a p-type solar cell. TOPCon’s features include a thin tunnel oxide layer, reducing recombination, and a polycrystalline silicon layer on the rear side, improving passivation and reducing resistance.

Q: Is mono PERC more efficient than monocrystalline?
A: Yes, Mono PERC, a type of monocrystalline solar cell, is more efficient than conventional monocrystalline cells. It includes a thin dielectric layer on the rear side, enhancing light absorption and current. Additionally, Mono PERC cells have fewer impurities and defects, reducing recombination and increasing voltage.

Q: What are the benefits of mono PERC panels?
A: Mono PERC panels offer higher efficiency and power output, especially in challenging conditions. They have a lower degradation rate and longer lifespan than conventional monocrystalline panels. Moreover, Mono PERC panels have lower production costs and environmental impact, utilizing less silicon and energy.

Q: What is the advantage of TOPCon compared to HJT?
A: TOPCon has advantages over HJT (Heterojunction Technology), including lower production costs and simplicity. HJT, while efficient, involves a high production cost and complexity due to the use of amorphous silicon layers on both sides of the crystalline silicon wafer. HJT is also more sensitive to humidity and degradation than TOPCon.

Q: What is the efficiency of TOPCon vs PERC?
A: The theoretical efficiency of TOPCon cells is 28.7%, exceeding the theoretical efficiency of PERC cells, which is 24.5%. In mass production, TOPCon cells achieve greater than 24% efficiency, while PERC cells achieve around 23%.

Q: What is the difference between PERC and TOPCon?
A: The main difference lies in the silicon type and rear cell structure. PERC uses p-type silicon with a dielectric layer on the rear side, reflecting light. TOPCon uses n-type silicon with a tunnel oxide layer and polycrystalline silicon on the rear side, improving passivation and reducing resistance.

Q: What is the efficiency of mono PERC?
A: The efficiency of mono PERC cells varies based on factors like wafer size, quality, cell design, and environmental conditions. On average, mono PERC cells have around 22% efficiency, with the highest efficiency reaching approximately 25%.

Q: What is the difference between mono PERC and monocrystalline?
A: Mono PERC is a type of monocrystalline solar cell with higher efficiency. It includes a thin dielectric layer on the rear side, reflecting light back to the cell and reducing recombination. Mono PERC also has fewer impurities and defects compared to conventional monocrystalline cells.

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