TCL Solar chose PV EXPO Japan to launch its maiden BC solar PV modules globally
The largest power module has an output of 665 W and a maximum efficiency of 24.6%
It also offers an all-black BC module with up to 22.8% efficiency for distributed generation applications
TCL Solar, the solar module manufacturing division of Chinese solar wafer maker TCL TZE, has expanded its cell technology footprint and introduced a new back contact (BC) solar PV module with a maximum power output of 665 W and efficiency reaching up to 24.6%.
This series uses TCL TZE’s large-size silicon wafers for SunPower’s patented interdigitated back contact (IBC) cell technology. TCL TZE is the majority stakeholder in Singapore-headquartered Maxeon Solar Technologies, which owns the SunPower IBC patent.
Showcased at the Japan International Photovoltaic Solar Exhibition (PV EXPO), TCL said its largest BC module G12R-66P uses the 2,382 x 1,134 mm size. It claims that compared to TOPCon modules of the same size, its BC modules generate 30 W more power, reducing the land area required for the same installed capacity by over 6% and increasing installation capacity by nearly 7% in the same area.
TCL also has another G10L-54P all-black BC module with a maximum output of 455 W and a rated efficiency of up to 22.8%, quite lower compared to the largest product in this series. With a high-reflectivity all-black film filling the gaps, this product will cater to distributed applications.
These BC modules have a nearly 40°C lower hot spot temperature than TOPCon modules due to their unique bypass diode structure. This significantly lowers fire risk caused by hot spots, it adds. Its 1 welding strip design makes it less prone to hidden cracks than modules using the traditional Z welding strip.
TCL’s n-type BC bifacial double-glass PV modules are certified by TÜV Rheinland, and will cater to the global audience.
In a related development, TCL TZE formally signed an equity purchase agreement and trademark assignment agreement to acquire 100% equity and corresponding interests of Maxeon in its non-US sales subsidiary directly and indirectly held by the latter. This comprises Maxeon’s global non-US distributed power generation business, as well as specific registered trademarks and trademark applications in non-US regions, including the SunPower trademark.
TCL TZE will close the transaction worth $35.69 million through its wholly-owned subsidiaries Lumetech and TCL SUNPOWER.
Earlier in February 2025, TCL Solar’s parent company TCL TZE recently entered a definitive share purchase agreement with Maxeon to acquire a 100% stake in the latter’s wholly-owned subsidiary SunPower Philippines Manufacturing Ltd through LUMETECH PTE. LTD. It will also collaborate with another Maxeon subsidiary Maxeon Solar for the research and development of MAX8 technology (see TCL TZE & Maxeon Solar Technologies To Collaborate On MAX8 Technology).