JA Solar’s Bycium+ Cell Sets New Record For Open-Circuit Voltage — 748.6mV – CleanTechnica

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JA Solar has disclosed that it has achieved a record-breaking open-circuit voltage for a solar cell using tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) technology. The Chinese PV module maker, based also in Arizona, noted that the finding was independently confirmed by Germany’s Institute for Solar Energy Research in Hamelin (ISFH). JA Solar reported that its Bycium+ solar cell had achieved a power conversion efficiency of 26.07%, an open-circuit voltage of 748.6 mV, a short-circuit current of 13.71 mA, and a fill factor of 83.82%. This milestone not only highlights TOPCon technology’s enormous potential, but also sets a new standard for the development of crystalline silicon PV cells.

“This milestone with our Bycium+ cell is not just a testament to JA Solar’s commitment to technological innovation but also a contribution to advancing the PV industry as a whole,” said Aiqing Yang, Executive President of JA Solar. “By setting a new benchmark for TOPCon cell open-circuit voltage, we aim to inspire broader progress across the industry, driving the development of high-performance, cost-effective PV solutions that accelerate the global transition to clean energy.”

The enhancement of PV cell efficiency is often divided into two areas: optical gain and electrical gain. “Electrical gain is driven by reducing recombination losses and contact resistance. Open-circuit voltage is directly linked to recombination and is a key indicator of a cell’s performance. Higher open-circuit voltage leads to better efficiency and affects the temperature coefficient of PV modules.”

Passivation technique is critical for increasing open-circuit voltage and cell efficiency by lowering internal recombination losses and allowing more electrical energy to be recovered. JA Solar has consistently refined the passivation structure of its TOPCon cells to reduce surface, bulk, and metal recombination. By integrating innovations in metallization, new materials, and processes, JA Solar broke the open-circuit voltage record. This innovation brings TOPCon technology closer to its theoretical efficiency limit, hence supporting the PV industry’s future growth.

When Ja Solar brought its manufacturing to the US, Arizona was pleased. The Chinese solar powerhouse fits perfectly into the state’s ambitions and offered the community 600 jobs. “Arizona is proud to welcome JA Solar’s first US manufacturing facility to Phoenix,” said Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, who lists “water and environment” among her top priorities on her office’s official website. “There’s no better place in the world for sustainable industries like solar, and we are excited to see this facility add to Arizona’s clean energy reputation.”

“We are very excited to be able to set up the first US solar module manufacturing facility in Arizona to provide our customers in the US the flexibility and ease of access to (our) high-performance PV products,” said Aiqing Yang, President of JA Solar. “(Thanks to) all the partners in Arizona, especially the ACA, GPEC, and the City of Phoenix, for their great support and tremendous assistance during the entire process of site selection and space leasing in preparation to establish the manufacturing facility. Solar is a critical part of renewable energy, and we are thrilled to be a part of the effort to meet the goal of carbon neutrality by 2050 in the US.”

Featured image from Ja Solar Deep Blue 4.0 Series.