If you look for solar panels online, you’ll come across terms like polycrystalline, TOPCon, and HJT. These are the types of solar panels available in the market. These terms can help you understand solar panel efficiency, lifespan, and more. This blog provides a comprehensive comparison of TOPCon vs HJT vs Polycrystalline to help you choose the best one for your project.
Sunora Solar has been creating high-quality solar panels for 9+ years. Over the years, we have consistently invested in R&D to provide you with the best solar panels, enhancing efficiency and ROI. If you’re unsure about which solar panel to choose, feel free to contact us for a consultation.
We will start by understanding these three solar panels and then compare their quality and specifications to help you make an informed decision.
What is a polycrystalline solar panel technology?
Polycrystalline solar panels are made of multiple fragments of silicon crystal. This reduces the cost of solar panels, making them an ideal option for those looking for an affordable solution. However, the silicon fragments affect electricity generation, reducing the efficiency of the polycrystalline solar panel.
- Production process: Multiple silicon fragments are melted together to create a polycrystalline solar cell. This cell is encapsulated between EVA sheets and sandwiched between the glasses to create a solar panel.
- Efficiency: Due to multiple silicon fragments, the solar conversion takes longer. Therefore, the efficiency of a polycrystalline solar panel ranges between 14% and 18%.
- Life span: If a polycrystalline solar system is properly maintained, its life span will be between 20 and 25 years.
- Degradation rate: The quality of solar panels deteriorates slowly over time due to their continuous operation and exposure to adverse weather conditions. Thus, the efficiency of the solar cells gets lowered by an annual percentage. For a polycrystalline solar panel, the degradation rate ranges from 0.79% to 1.67%.
What is TOPCon solar panel technology?
The TOPCon solar panels have the Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) between the glass and solar cells. These layers reflect the sunlight back on cells to increase efficiency. This is one of the best and widely used solar technologies in India.
Monocrystalline TOPCon solar panels are the best choice for Indian domestic and commercial projects due to their efficiency and affordable prices. You can reduce the price further by availing the government subsidies based on your solar system’s size.
- Production process: TOPCon solar panels can be produced in the same classic plant used for polycrystalline panels, with just one additional step: the addition of the TOPCon layer.
- Efficiency: TOPCon solar panels are one of the solar panels with an efficiency of 22-24%.
- Life span: These solar panels, made with a single silicon crystal, can last more than 25 years with the help of regular maintenance.
- Degradation rate: The TOPcon solar cells have a degradation rate of 0.4% to 0.5%.
What is HJT solar panel technology?
Heterojunction (HJT) solar panels are one of the most innovative technologies available in the market. Here, a thin film of amorphous silicon is deposited on the silicon wafer. These layers reduce electron loss and increase the solar panel’s efficiency. These are among the most advanced solar panels in India, ideal for cloudy areas.
- Production process: The HJT solar panel technology is manufactured through a unique 4-step process. The manufacturers require a specialized plant to produce these solar panels; therefore, they are more expensive.
- Efficiency: The advanced technology increases the solar conversion and, therefore, the HJT solar panels have an efficiency of more than 25%.
- Life span: HJT solar panels can last upto 30 years.
- Degradation rate: Each year, the HJT Solar cell’s performance degrades by 0.5%.
TOPCon vs HJT vs Polycrystalline: A comprehensive comparison
| Parameter | Polycrystalline Solar Panels | TOPCon Solar Panels | HJT Solar Panels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Technology Used | Silicon fragments | Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact layer | Depositing amorphous silicon |
| Efficiency | 14% – 18% | 22% – 24% | ≥ 25% |
| Life Span | 20 – 25 years | ≥ 25 years | ≥ 30 years |
| Degradation Rate / Year | 0.79% – 1.67% | 0.4% – 0.5% | Approximately 0.5% |
| Aesthetic | Blue coloured | Sleek black | Premium black finish |
| Estimated Price | Affordable | Medium | High |
How to choose the right solar panel?
When selecting a solar panel, consider your electricity needs, the amount of sunlight exposure in your area, and your budget. If you have optimal sunlight, you can choose any of the options above. However, if your area often has a cloudy environment, then TOPCon solar panels are your best budget option. Sunora Solar can help you find the right solar panel and determine the solar system size to meet your needs. Contact us now for a consultation.
Conclusion
TOPCon vs HJT vs Polycrystalline: which one is better? This is one of the most common dilemmas people face when they want to install a solar system. Therefore, we have created this blog to provide a comprehensive comparison based on their technology, efficiency, degradation rate, and lifespan. If you need more insights, contact Sunora Solar for assistance! We are eager to help you switch to solar energy and find affordable solutions.
FAQ
What’s the difference between TOPCon and HJT solar panels?
TOPCon and HJT are popular types of solar panels with different production processes and efficiencies. The TOPCon solar panels feature an additional Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact layer that reflects sunlight back onto the cells that resulting in 22-24% efficiency. HJT solar panels have cells covered by amorphous silicon to maximize the electricity generation with an efficiency of more than 25%. Both can last more than 25 years.
How to Choose a Solar Panel for My Home?
When choosing a solar panel for your home, you need to consider
- Your electricity needs
- Sunlight exposure
- Space available for solar system mounting.
Analyze your 6-month electricity bills to determine your monthly energy needs. The Sunora Solar team can help you find the best fit for your home. Contact us to know more.
Which type of solar panel has the most efficiency?
TOPCon solar panels are the most efficient and affordable solar panels in India. They have an efficiency of 22-25%. You can achieve an efficiency of more than 25% by choosing bifacial solar panels. You can also choose HJT solar panels as an alternative, if you need a highly efficient but slightly more expensive option.
How much space do you need for a solar panel?
The area for the installation of solar panels depends on the number of panels installed. For high output, you have to choose between the two: installing more panels of lower efficiency or a few more efficient and costly ones. Contact Sunora Solar to determine the space required for solar panels, tailored to your specific needs, budget, and available space.
