What is the different PERC and TOPCon solar cell

With the continuous development of solar photovoltaic technology, PERC cells and TOPCON cells, as two mainstream types of solar cells, occupy an important position in the photovoltaic industry. However, there are some obvious differences between them.

This article will focus on the differences between PERC cells and TOPCON cells to help better understand the characteristics and advantages of these two types of solar cells.

TOPCon solar cell structure                   PERC solar cell structure

The Basics of PERC Solar Cells

PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) is a solar cell technology based on P-type silicon wafers. PERC cells achieve higher efficiency by adding a back passivation layer (usually aluminum oxide or other materials) to the backside of the cell, which reduces the reverse recombination of electrons. The PERC technology mainly optimizes the structure of the cell, enabling more light energy to be converted into electrical energy.

TOPCon Solar Cells: An Overview

TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) is a solar cell technology based on N-type silicon substrates. Its core lies in the backside passivated contact structure. The front surface of the TOPCon cell is treated with a multilayer film passivation process, while the back surface adopts a tunnel oxide layer passivation contact structure based on ultra-thin silicon oxide and doped polycrystalline silicon. This structure utilizes the passivation property to reduce metal recombination, thereby significantly enhancing the conversion efficiency of the cell.

Comparing PERC and TOPCon Solar Cells

1. Efficiency:

PERC Solar Cells: Typically achieve efficiency rates between 22% to 24.5%. The passivation layer helps in capturing more light and converting it into electricity.

Topcon Solar Cells: Can reach efficiency rates above 26%. The advanced passivation and tunnelling oxide layers contribute to these high-efficiency levels.

2. Cost:

PERC Solar Cells: Generally, PERC cells are more affordable than Topcon cells. They offer a good balance between cost and performance, making them popular among solar panel manufacturers.

Topcon Solar Cells: While more expensive, Topcon cells provide higher efficiency and longer lifespan, which can justify the higher initial investment.

PERC and Topcon Solar Cells which one better for flexible solar panels?

If make glass solar panels, Topcon solar cells higher efficiency then PERC better performance, of course it is higher cost for solar cell.

But to flexible solar panels, recommend to use PERC not only cheap cost,the most important is water resistance, PERC solar cell take advantage than Topcon solar cells. Topcon solar cell due to technical structure,after polymer laminated, films easier to take off.

Contact our team ➪NEWLIGHT ENERGY to discuss customized solar solutions tailored to your specific market requirements.

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