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How It’s Made: A TOPCon Cell

  • Writer: RenewSys India
    RenewSys India
  • Aug 1
  • 3 min read

RenewSys, produces cutting-edge TOPCon solar modules that represent the latest advancements in solar technology. Designed using TOPCon Cells, these modules deliver superior performance and reliability, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial applications.

 

As the technology in the solar industry continues to evolve, technologies like TOPCon are leading the change as they are high efficiency, cost effective and reliable energy solutions. With their impressive  performance characteristics and adaptability, TOPCon solar cells represent a significant leap forward in photovoltaic technology.


How does a TOPCon Cell work?

The operation of TOPCon solar cells involves several intricate processes:

  • Photon Absorption: Sunlight falls on boron doped Si (absorber layer), absorbing the photon and generating electron-hole pairs.

  • Charge Carrier Movement: The electrons generated by photon absorption travel through the n-type Si towards the tunneling oxide layer, What truly sets TOPCon apart from other solar cell technologies is this tunnel oxide passivating layer. The design of this layer allows for efficient transfer of electrons while minimizing recombination losses. It also provides gettering effect.

  • Electricity Generation: Once the electrons reach the rear contacts, they flow through the external circuit to power electrical loads. Innovative  tunnel contact technique in TOPCon cells ensure minimal recombination  losses on rear side, resulting in record conversion efficiencies. 


What is a TOPCon Cell Made Of?

At the core of TOPCon technology is a carefully engineered structure that integrates several key components:


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  1. N-Type Silicon Wafer: TOPCon cells use phosphorous doped n-type silicon wafers. This choice of wafer have higher electron mobility, increases power output, and reduces recombination losses compared to p-type silicon wafer.

  2. Front Emitter:  the front side of the TOPCon cell includes a boron-diffused emitter that absorbs sunlight and generates electric hole pair when exposed to photons.

  3. Tunneling Oxide Layer: A thin layer of silicon dioxide (SiO2) is deposited on the rear side of the cell. This tunneling oxide layer serves as a passivation layer, significantly reducing surface recombination by preventing charge carriers from recombining at the rear surface. This enhancement leads to improved charge collection efficiency.

  4. Phosphorous Doped Polysilicon Layer: Above the tunneling oxide, an Phosphorous doped polysilicon layer is applied, which facilitates excellent electrical contact while maintaining low contact resistance. This layer enhances the overallcollection of electrons  in the cell and contributes to its higher efficiency.


What Are The Advantages of TOPCon Technology?

TOPCon technology offers a lot of significant advantages that set it apart in the solar energy landscape.

 

First and foremost, TOPCon cells achieve ultra-high efficiencies, often exceeding 26%, which is a remarkable improvement over traditional PERC cells that typically reach around 23 to 24 %. This enhanced efficiency means more electricity generated from the same amount of sunlight, maximizing energy output.

 

Additionally, TOPCon cells feature a lower temperature coefficient, making them less sensitive to temperature increases, which is particularly beneficial in hot climates. This design leads to reduced performance degradation over time; TOPCon technology has lower  light-induced degradation (LID), allowing for an annual performance drop of less than 0.4%.

 

Furthermore, TOPCon modules excel in bifacial performance, generating electricity from both sides and effectively capturing reflected sunlight, with bifaciality levels typically between 80% and 85%. Lastly, one of the standout features of TOPCon technology is its adaptability in manufacturing. It can be easily integrated into existing production processes used for PERC cells, allowing manufacturers to transition with minimal changes to their equipment. This combination of efficiency, durability, and manufacturing flexibility makes TOPCon an exceptional choice for anyone looking to invest in solar energy solutions.

 

In summary, TOPCon solar modules represent a significant advancement in solar technology, offering superior efficiency, durability, and adaptability. As you consider your options for solar energy solutions, understanding these benefits can help you make an informed decision that meets your energy needs effectively.

 

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