As the demand for renewable energy grows, solar energy is becoming more important. It is a solution that aids in the generation of clean electricity. solar industry are constantly working to improve and increase the efficiency of solar panels. field, two advanced technologies, IBC (Fork Finger Back Contact) and TOPCon (Thin Surface Passivation Contact), have received a lot of attention. In this blog post, we will compare and contrast IBC and TOPCon solar panel technologies. We will look at the benefits of each and how they might shape the future of solar energy.
What is IBC Solar Panel Technology?
IBC (Interdigitated Back Contact) technology represents a significant advancement in the design of solar panels. The solar cell has a unique design in which the front and back contacts are located on the cell's back. This improves the front of the cell's ability to absorb light, making it more efficient. This configuration reduces shading losses and thus improves energy capture.
What are the benefits of solar panels that use IBC technology?
1. Increased efficiency: By moving all of the contacts to the back and increasing the effective area of the solar panel, IBC cells increase the overall energy conversion rate by more than 20%. This helps to reduce shading losses.
2. Improved aesthetics: IBC panels have a sleek and attractive design on the front with no visible metal contacts or grid lines. As a result, they are visually appealing for both residential and commercial applications. Black solar panels are very popular in residential areas in some European countries. Because they complement dark-colored roofs and improve the overall appearance, these panels are more expensive than traditional PERC panels.
3. Improved high-temperature performance: When compared to other technologies, IBC technology performs better in high-temperature conditions. Furthermore, IBC solar panels operate at lower temperatures than traditional panels. As a result, they are a better choice for hot climates.
4. Greater Durability: Placing the contacts on the backside provides additional protection against moisture and dust. This helps to prevent any long-term damage and keeps performance from deteriorating.
What is the TOPCon solar panel technology?
TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology is a new method for increasing the efficiency of solar panels. TOPCon technology is the next generation of PERC technology.
TOPCon solar cells are based on existing passivated emitter and back-side cell (PERC) technology. TOPCon cells, like their predecessor, can be incorporated into cells produced in the traditional manner.
TOPCon is a technology that involves the application of a very thin layer of silicon dioxide (SiO2) followed by a layer of phosphorus-doped polycrystalline silicon. This results in passivated contact structures on both the front and back surfaces. TOPCon technology entails the application of a very thin layer of silicon dioxide (SiO2) and a layer of phosphorus-doped polysilicon. By using passivated contact structures on both the front and back surfaces, this helps to reduce losses and improve carrier extraction.
What are the benefits of solar panels with TOPCon technology?
1. Higher efficiency: When compared to conventional PERC technology, TOPCon solar panels can achieve higher conversion efficiencies. This is due to the fact that they efficiently extract charge from the front surface while reducing compounding. According to Fraunhofer ISE, TOPCon cells have the potential to achieve efficiencies of more than 25%, whereas PERC cells have a theoretical maximum efficiency of around 24%.
2. Outstanding light absorption: Because TOPCon panels lack frontal metal contacts, they absorb more light and generate more power. TOPCon solar panels are more capable of generating power in low-light conditions. This means they can generate electricity for a longer period of time.
3. Potential Cost Savings: TOPCon solar panels are manufactured in a complex process. The good news is that they can be manufactured using the same machinery as P-modules. This means that manufacturers won't have to invest heavily in new equipment. Furthermore, TOPCon cells have higher conversion efficiency, which means they may be less expensive to manufacture per watt.
4. Improved Reliability: TOPCon technology reduces surface recombination and improves the durability and consistency of the panels over time. The power degradation rate of TOPCon solar panels is low in the first year of operation and for the next 30 years.
What is the distinction between IBC and TOPCon technology?
Both IBC and TOPCon technologies represent significant advances in the solar industry. They are designed specifically to boost efficiency and performance. However, each of them has unique characteristics and factors to consider.
1. Generation Efficiency: Both technologies are extremely efficient, with IBC panels slightly more so in some cases. According to the data, IBC has a theoretical conversion efficiency limit of 29.1%, which is greater than TOPCon's 28.7%. However, the efficiency difference between the two options is negligible.
2. Manufacturing complexity: While both technologies involve complex manufacturing processes, TOPCon technology may provide long-term cost savings. Because TOPCon technology is the logical step after PERC technology, it adds little extra cost to the finished product and can produce additional efficiency gains over PERC.
3. Commercial viability: Right now, whether these technologies can make money is dependent on a number of factors, including how much they cost to manufacture, whether they can be mass-produced, and whether people want to buy them. IBC technology is advantageous because it can be used in conjunction with other cell technologies such as TOPCon, HJT, Calcium Titanium Ore, and so on. This combination produces TBC, HBC, and PSC IBC technologies with higher conversion efficiencies. IBC technology is frequently referred to as a "platform technology" that provides superior performance due to its versatility.
What are the prospects for IBC and TOPCon technology in solar panels?
Simply put, both IBC and TOPCon solar cell technologies have the potential to significantly alter the solar panel industry. They have the potential to increase efficiency while also making solar energy more widely available and sustainable. IBC panels are well-known for their high-temperature performance and commercial viability. TOPCon panels, on the other hand, have higher efficiencies and potential cost savings. As solar technology advances, it is critical to keep an eye on how commercial applications and technological advancements will shape the future of solar power.
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The choice between IBC and TOPCon technologies will ultimately be determined by the solar project's specific needs, budget constraints, and the future direction of solar panel manufacturing advancements. Since 2008, Maysun Solar has concentrated on producing high-quality photovoltaic modules. We provide solar panels in a variety of technologies, including Half Cut, MBB, IBC, TOPCon, and Shingled. These panels are well-known for their high performance and attractive designs that complement any structure. Whatever technology you prefer, Maysun Solar has a solution for you!
In a number of countries, Maysun Solar has established offices, warehouses, and strong partnerships with skilled installers. Please contact us if you have any questions about the latest module quotes or any PV-related inquiries.
