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[TECHNOLOGY] · China, Brazil · 4 sources

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Solar cell efficiency reaches record 26.31% via new technology

Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences have developed a new technology that has pushed silicon solar cell efficiency to a record 26.31%, according to a study published in the journal Matter.

The innovation focuses on crystalline silicon, the primary material in the global photovoltaic industry. Traditional TOPCon cell manufacturing uses high-temperature silver and aluminum paste, which can damage the protective passivation layer and create thick lines that cast shadows on the panel. To address this, scientists created a specialized silver ink without aluminum and implemented a process called Laser Enhanced Contact Optimization (LECO).

Instead of using industrial ovens to heat the entire plate, the LECO method utilizes high-precision laser beams to apply heat only to specific electrical contact points. This prevents damage to the silicon's protective film and reduces surface shadowing, allowing for greater light capture and conversion.

This technological advancement is already impacting markets, including Brazil. Filipe Ferraz, a director at Grupo Solare, noted that the increase in module power density—moving from 330 W to 610 W models in similar spaces—has significantly transformed the sector.

Entities

China · Chinese Academy of Sciences · Filipe Ferraz · Grupo Solare · Matter

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