N-Type Solar Cell
A solar cell architecture using phosphorus-doped silicon (negative charge carriers). N-type cells (TOPCon, HJT) offer higher efficiency, lower degradation, and better shade tolerance than traditional P-type PERC cells.
Why It Matters
N-type panels are becoming the new standard, displacing P-type PERC. They deliver 1-3% higher real-world yields and degrade slower (0.3-0.4% per year vs 0.5%).
Related Terms
TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact)
An advanced silicon solar cell architecture that adds an ultra-thin oxide layer and doped polysilicon to reduce electron recombination at the contacts, improving efficiency to 24-26%.
HJT Cell (Heterojunction Technology)
A solar cell that combines crystalline silicon with thin amorphous silicon layers, achieving high efficiency (24-26%) with excellent temperature coefficient and bifacial performance.
PERC Cell (Passivated Emitter Rear Contact)
A silicon solar cell design that adds a passivation layer to the rear surface, reducing electron recombination and boosting efficiency to 21-23%. Formerly the industry standard.