In the rapidly advancing solar manufacturing industry, TOPCon technology has risen quickly to become the dominant cell platform. With benefits such as higher efficiency, improved bifaciality, and superior performance in real-world operating conditions, TOPCon represents a significant leap forward. Companies are leveraging this technology platform to maximize its potential.
JinkoSolar, a prominent player in the solar industry, has been at the forefront of this technological evolution. Known for its innovative approach and diverse product lineup, the company recently introduced the Tiger Neo III, a module series that showcases the latest advancements in TOPCon technology. To discuss the factors behind TOPCon’s rapid adoption, JinkoSolar’s roadmap, and the company’s strategies for addressing challenges like pricing and manufacturing scalability, TaiyangNews spoke to Dany Qian, Global Vice President of JinkoSolar.
TaiyangNews: TOPCon is replacing PERC at a much faster pace than expected. What do you think is the main reason?
Dany Qian: TOPCon is becoming the major technology platform because it can be optimized or integrated with other processes for diverse applications, addressing a wide range of needs. The technology also provides significant potential for further optimization and efficiency improvements. Take our latest Tiger Neo III, for example. It’s based on TOPCon technology and incorporates process optimizations. We continue exploring ways to integrate additional capabilities into cells, achieving higher levels of efficiency and productivity. TOPCon technology is scaling towards its theoretical efficiency limit of 28.7%. Beyond that, it can be integrated with perovskite tandem structures.
TaiyangNews: Can you share the technical specifications of the Tiger Neo III?
Dany Qian: Tiger Neo III incorporates significant technological advancements to deliver enhanced power and performance for high-performance applications, especially in the utility and DG markets. It features HOT 4.0 all-around passivation, covering metal and non-metal areas on both the front and rear sides. This platform integrates superior light trapping and absorption technology, known as MAX, as well as edge passivation for half-cut cells and a 0BB design. These innovations represent industry-leading TOPCon processes.
TaiyangNews: How does the Tiger Neo III fit into JinkoSolar’s technology roadmap?
Dany Qian: Looking at our roadmap, module efficiency has improved from 22.3% in 2022 to 23.23% in 2023, and now to 24.8% – an over 1% absolute increase per generation. Between these milestones, we’ve driven incremental enhancements to allow our customers to benefit from the scaling advantages of each generation. These enhancements deliver substantial improvements in power performance and efficiency, ensuring continuous value for our customers.
TaiyangNews: It sounds like you’ve made significant process optimizations and added additional processing steps. What does that mean in terms of costs?
Dany Qian: While there are associated costs, the power and performance benefits outweigh them. This is especially crucial for high-performance applications where metrics like kWh/kW are key drivers. Our technology allows customers to improve power output on the front side without compromising bifaciality, maximizing overall value.
TaiyangNews: What are the product rollout plans for the Tiger Neo III?
Dany Qian: We’re targeting the second half of 2025 for production with lead customers. Limited production has already begun, and we anticipate more high-performance customers will adopt the product to address their future needs.
TaiyangNews: Let’s address the elephant in the room – pricing. Module prices have hit rock bottom. Do you see them dropping further, and what’s the pricing strategy for the Neo III?
Dany Qian: Current prices represent the bottom and will rebound soon. We don’t need to reduce prices further since they already offer sufficient margins for developers and investors. While the Neo III may see a price increase, its superior performance benefits will lower the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE).
TaiyangNews: Even in the current oversupply situation, do you see high-efficiency products gaining market acceptance?
Dany Qian: Absolutely. There’s an insatiable demand for high-efficiency products. This is a new trend where customers prioritize energy yields (kWh/kW) and lower LCOE ($/kWh). Our focus is on providing platforms that enhance productivity and reliability, meeting increasingly demanding market requirements.
TaiyangNews: Where does JinkoSolar stand on back-contact (BC) technology?
Dany Qian: JinkoSolar has been a leader in scaling n-type TOPCon technology into high-volume manufacturing. Our R&D team is continuously evaluating new capabilities, and TOPCon is compatible with the back-contact architecture. However, scalability, manufacturing costs, IP risks, and inherent limitations – like lower bifaciality and complex processes – must be considered for mass production. For now, the Tiger Neo III allows customers to achieve higher front-side power without sacrificing bifaciality, all at a lower cost. Remember, rear-side power comes free for our customers.
TaiyangNews: Can you provide an update on JinkoSolar’s global manufacturing strategy?
Dany Qian: Our global manufacturing strategy is progressing exceptionally well and at a fast pace. We’ve significantly expanded our footprint, including establishing our first Middle East factory focused on n-type TOPCon technology with 26% efficiency and beyond. This facility is slated to begin production in 2026.
TaiyangNews: Thank you for the interview.