At Watts Up Solar, we’re excited to bring TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) solar panels to our product lineup. This groundbreaking technology, which builds upon the widely used PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Contact) design, represents the future of high-efficiency solar energy.
What is TOPCon Technology?
Introduced by the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems in Germany in 2013, TOPCon takes PERC technology to the next level. By adding an ultra-thin tunneling oxide layer to the back of a PERC solar cell, TOPCon significantly reduces recombination losses and increases efficiency. Unlike brand-new manufacturing processes like heterojunction technology (HJT), which require completely different production lines, TOPCon can be integrated into existing PERC production facilities with minimal upgrades.
PERC cells, which are already highly efficient, have a theoretical efficiency limit of about 24%. TOPCon extends that limit by improving energy conversion and reliability. Major advancements in TOPCon technology have pushed efficiencies even higher:
2021: LONGi achieved 25.21% efficiency with n-type bifacial TOPCon cells. JinkoSolar followed with 25.4%.
2022: Trina Solar hit 25.5% efficiency on larger 210-mm cell sizes.
These incremental advancements are making TOPCon a preferred choice for manufacturers and consumers alike.
Why Choose TOPCon Over PERC?
While PERC technology remains an excellent option, TOPCon offers several advantages:
Higher Efficiency: TOPCon panels deliver more power per unit area. This is especially useful for installations where space is limited.
Improved Bifaciality: TOPCon modules achieve an 80% bifaciality rate, compared to PERC’s 70%. This means they can capture more energy from sunlight reflected off the ground, making them ideal for ground-mounted systems.
We’re proud to offer TOPCon panels to our customers, delivering the latest in solar efficiency and reliability. Whether you’re planning a residential installation or a large-scale utility project, our TOPCon solutions are designed to maximize energy production and provide lasting value.
Contact us today to learn more about our TOPCon panels and how they can enhance your solar energy system!
