Enel Green Power takes a risky gamble with the expansion of its HJT manufacturing facility

February 11, 2022 | Case Study

Silicon heterojunction (HJT) solar cell technology has recently received extensive R&D attention, with several companies like Huasun and Longi reporting continuous improvements in HJT cell efficiencies. Although HJT efficiencies are closer to incumbent crystalline silicon (c-Si) efficiencies, HJT cells haven't penetrated the market nearly as deeply, with a current market share of 1% compared with 75% for MonoPERC (monocrystalline passivated emitter rear contact) solar cells. This is because the materials used in the metallization process and the manufacturing equipment are much more expensive for HJT cell production. Enel Green Power (EGP)'s efficiency tests for its HJT modules in 2020 suggest that commercial-sized HJT modules can achieve efficiencies greater than 24.5% (current HJT module efficiencies lie between 20% and 22%); EGP is expanding its manufacturing facility to roll out next-generation HJT solar modules.