As global temperatures continue to rise, especially in regions like India, the choice of solar panels becomes crucial for optimal energy production. For those considering solar energy adoption, investing in panels that perform exceptionally well in higher temperatures is paramount.
One standout technology in this regard is the N-type TOPCon solar panels, which surpass the performance of Mono PERC (Monocrystalline) and Multicrystalline solar panels, particularly in hot weather conditions. To understand why, let's first delve into the temperature coefficient.
What Is Temperature Coefficient?
The temperature coefficient in photovoltaics (PV) denotes the alteration in the output power of a PV module or cell in response to temperature fluctuations. Typically measured at standard test conditions (STC)—25°C and 1,000 watts per square meter of solar irradiance—it is expressed as a percentage per degree Celsius.
For example, a solar panel with a temperature coefficient of -0.3 %/°C will experience a 0.3% reduction in power output for every 1°C increase in temperature. The temperature coefficient varies based on the solar panel technology and the materials used in the module or cell.
Temperature Coefficient: N-type TOPCon vs Mono PERC vs Multicrystalline
To better understand the significance of the temperature coefficient, let's compare TOPCon solar panels with Mono PERC and Multicrystalline panels using the graph below.
As depicted in the above graph, N-type TOPCon solar panels exhibit the lowest temperature coefficient when compared to Mono PERC and Multicrystalline panels. This means that the decline in electricity generation for TOPCon panels is the lowest in high-temperature environments.
Given that tropical countries like India experience temperatures exceeding 25°C for most months of the year, the temperature coefficient emerges as one of the critical factors to consider when selecting solar panels.
Why Does the Temperature Coefficient Matter?
In hot climates, solar panels are often exposed to elevated temperatures, impacting their efficiency. The lower the temperature coefficient, the better a solar panel can maintain its performance in such conditions. N-type TOPCon panels, with their superior temperature coefficient, ensure more consistent and efficient electricity generation, making them an ideal choice for regions with warmer climates.
Data and image credits:
RenewSys R&D