Why IBC Solar Panels Are the Preferred Choice in High-Temperature weather

Why are IBC solar panels suitable for high-Temperature environment?

Low temperature coefficient

The solar panel’s low-temperature coefficient signifies how its performance parameters change with each degree Celsius of operating temperature variation. This coefficient gauges how sensitive the panel’s electrical performance is to operating temperature fluctuations. For example, IBC solar panel has a temperature coefficient of -0.29%/°C, it means that for every one-degree Celsius rise in operating temperature beyond the Standard Test Conditions (STC) of 25°C, the IBC solar panel’s peak power output decreases by 0.29%.

Below, we compare the power degradation of two different temperature coefficient solar panels (PERC vs. IBC) under high-temperature conditions at 40°C.

1. IBC Solar Panels (Temperature Coefficient of 0.29%/°C):

Increase in operational temperature: 80°C – 25°C = 55°C.

Power Degradation = 55°C × 0.29%/°C = 15.95%.

2. PERC Solar Panels (Temperature Coefficient of 0.34%/°C):

Increase in operational temperature: 55°C.

Power Degradation = 55°C × 0.34%/°C = 18.7%.

In elevated temperature conditions, IBC and PERC solar panels exhibit power degradation rates of 15.95% and 18.7%, respectively. This highlights the superior performance retention of IBC solar panels under high-temperature conditions. Furthermore, as operational temperatures rise, the difference in power degradation between these two panel types becomes more pronounced. Therefore, IBC solar panels are the optimal choice for hot weather conditions.

Good weathering resistance (thermal stress)

The term “good weathering resistance” in the context of solar panels, also known as excellent thermal stress performance, refers to the ability of solar panels to maintain their performance and stability under various climatic conditions, including high-temperature environments. This is a crucial feature because solar panels are often required to operate in diverse weather conditions, and in some regions, they may encounter hot weather.

The advanced full back-contact design of Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) solar panels is closely linked to their thermal stress resistance. A key aspect of this design involves relocating the positive and negative electrodes of the solar panel to the rear, eliminating the need for front-side ribbons and metal grid lines. This unique design significantly mitigates the occurrence of thermal stress.

Firstly, IBC solar panels, devoid of metal grid lines and ribbons on the front side, experience less thermal expansion and contraction during temperature fluctuations. This reduction in thermal stress on the front side enhances the overall stability and durability of the solar panel.

Additionally, the design of IBC solar panels optimizes the efficiency of current transmission within the solar cell, thanks to improved back-side electrode contact with the solar cells. This effectively reduces resistive losses and enhances the overall performance of the solar panel.

LeTID effect:

LeTID (Light and Elevated Temperature Induced Degradation) is an effect that impacts the performance of solar panels, primarily occurring when solar panels are exposed to light and high-temperature conditions. The LeTID effect can lead to a reduction in the performance of solar panels, affecting their long-term stability.

Reasons why IBC performs better in terms of anti-LeTID:

1.Electrode Position: The electrodes of IBC solar panels are located on the back rather than the front, helping to reduce the number of charge-capturing centers on the surface of the solar cell. Charge-capturing centers, which are defects or impurities, can capture and trap charges, leading to a decline in the solar cell’s performance. By moving the electrodes to the back, the IBC design reduces the number of charge-capturing centers that may form on the front surface of the solar cell, thereby slowing down the occurrence of the LeTID effect.

2.Current Distribution: The IBC structural design involves the cross-arrangement of solar cell electrodes, promoting a more uniform distribution of current across the surface of the solar cell. This helps to reduce localized hotspots and mitigate the occurrence of LeTID. In comparison, some other structures may result in the concentration of current in specific areas, increasing the risk of LeTID.