Do you want to install a solar panel in your house, but looking at terms like Mono PERC solar panel, TOPCon solar panel, PERC Half Cell Technology, and HJT solar panels intimidate you? We know that these big terms can be confusing, but once you understand the three main types of solar panels, you can easily understand the rest (variants of the three main types).
Choosing a solar panel is a lifestyle, a sustainable and money-saving one! Therefore, understanding the different types of solar panels can help you make an informed decision and get better returns from your solar investment.
We will discuss the three main types of solar panels: Mono PERC, TOPCon, and HJT. Let’s start by understanding each of these solar panels before discussing their differences.
What is a mono PERC solar panel?
Mono Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell Solar, aka Mono PERC solar panel, has an additional passivated layer at the rear end of the traditional crystalline solar panel. The PERC solar panels use the layer at the rear end to reflect the rays on the PV modules to increase electricity generation. Apart from the standard Mono PERC solar panel, there is also a Mono PERC Half Cut Solar Panel with more PERC PV cells.
What is a TOPCon solar panel?
The TopCon solar panel is like the Mono PERC but with an additional Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact layer. A thin tunnel oxide layer is added between the TOPCon solar cell and the rear layer. It reflects the sunlight on the cells to maximize energy production. Popular solar cells are standard TOPCon panels, Topcon Bifacial solar panels, and TOPCon half-cut solar panels.
What are HJT solar panels?
The Heterojunction Technology (HJT) solar panel is the most advanced design in the current market. The HJT solar cells are sandwiched between a thin film of amorphous silicon. Indium Tin Oxide covers this layer from the top and rear side to maximize the sunlight exposure on the solar cells. Apart from the standard HJT solar panels, you can also choose HJT Bifacial Solar Panel or HJT half-cut Solar Panel.
What is the difference between Mono PERC, TOPCon, and HJT Solar Panels?
While all three solar panels are popular, some differences in performance and design can help you get better returns.
Production process
Mono PERC and TOPCon solar panels are almost similar, except for the additional tunnel oxide layer on the passivated rear. The HJT solar panels are made using a completely different process and equipment.
- PERC solar panels are made using an 8-step process.
- The TOPCon solar panel is made with a 10-step process in the same machine as the PERC solar panel.
- The HJT solar panels are made with a 4-step unique process in a different manufacturing system.
Efficiency
Efficiency refers to the amount of sunlight the PV cells can absorb from total sunlight exposure. The higher the percentage, the more energy your solar panel will be able to produce. If efficiency is your primary concern, you can opt for HJT solar panels.
The energy efficiency of these three solar panels is as follows:
- Mono PERC: 19-22%.
- TOPCon: 22-24%
- HJT: more than 25%
Life Span
Due to the continuous heat exposure and usage, the solar cells degrade. The degradation is ideally 0.5%. In simple terms, the solar panel’s efficiency will reduce by 0.5% every year. Therefore, by the end of the solar panel’s life cycle, its efficiency will reduce to 90%. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help you maintain solar panels’ performance based on their lifecycle stage.
The life span of each of these solar panels is:
- Mono PERC: 25-30 years
- TOPCon: 25-30 years
- HJT: 30+ years
Temperature efficiency
While solar panels thrive in the sunlight, each type of solar panel has an operational temperature range that creates maximum energy. If the temperature is lower, the panels won’t generate energy; if the temperature is higher, the panels will get overheated and damaged.
The following is the operational temperature range for better efficiency of the solar panels:
- PERC: -40°C to 80°C
- TOPCon: -40°C to 85°C
- HJT: -40°C to 85°C
Cost
As mentioned above, the Mono PERC and TOPCon solar panels can be made in the same production plant. Therefore, most manufacturers charge only a little more for the TOPCon solar panels. However, the HJT is a new technology that needs different equipment. As the HJT is new in the market, there aren’t many producers, leading to an increase in cost.
If cost isn’t your limiting factor, you can choose an HJT solar panel. However, the TOPCon solar panels and HJT have similar performance and life spans. So, if you want high-performing solar panels, you can choose TOPCon solar panels. You can also choose Transparent Photovoltaic Panels for maximum sunlight exposure and energy generation.
Do you need help in choosing the best solar panel?
Choosing a solar panel can be confusing. Therefore, Sunora Solar is here to help you find the best solar panel based on your energy requirements, budget, and the space for solar panel installation. From finding the best panel to installation, our team will assist you in each step! In our eight years of experience, we have helped more than 5200 customers install high-performing solar solutions. Whether you need a Mono PERC or TOPCon solar panel, we have solar panels for all types of projects.
From the rooftop resident project to the ground-mount commercial project, we can help you install solar panels effortlessly. Please send us your queries; we are eager to hear from you.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between the Mono PERC, HJT, and TOPCon solar panels can help you better decide your solar investment. The Mono PERC is a cost-effective solution with average efficiency. TOPCon solar panels give you more efficiency without a drastic increase in price due to their similar design to PERC solar panels. The HJT solar panels are the latest designs with better efficiency at a slightly higher cost. Sunora Solar can help you choose and install the best solar panel based on your needs! Contact us with your queries now!
FAQ
What’s the difference between Mono PERC and TOPCon solar panels?
The Mono PERC solar cell panel has a passivated layer at the rear end to reflect back the sunlight on the solar cells. On the other hand, the TOPCon solar panels have an additional tunnel oxide layer over the passivated layer to reflect more sunlight on the cells. Therefore, TOPCon solar panels have more efficiency and a slight hike in price.
Are HJT solar panels better than TOPCon solar panels?
HJT solar panels perform better in terms of efficiency and lifespan. The HJT has more than 25% efficiency compared to 22-24% in TOPCon. The HJT lasts over 30 years compared to 25-30 years of TOPCon. However, the HJT solar panels are relatively new in the market and have limited suppliers. Therefore, they are costlier than TOPCon solar panels. Compare the features and choose what’s best for you.
What are bifacial solar panels?
Traditional solar panels are only exposed to sunlight on one side. However, bifacial solar panels have a transparent rear side that absorbs the light exposure or is reflected on the rear surface. It increases the efficiency of the solar panel. Mono PERC, HJT, and TOPCon bifacial solar panels are in the market.
What does the degradation rate mean in a solar panel?
The degradation rate refers to the decrease in the efficiency of the solar panel over its lifecycle. The average degradation rate is 0.5% per year. Therefore, by the end of the 25-30-year life cycle, the solar panel’s efficiency will decrease to 90%. Regular maintenance is essential to maintain the quality and efficiency of the solar panels.
