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Reliability of Commercial TOPCon PV Modules -- An Extensive Comparative Study
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  • Paul Gebhardt,
  • Ulli Kräling,
  • Esther Fokuhl,
  • Ingrid Hädrich,
  • Daniel Philipp
Paul Gebhardt
Fraunhofer-Institut fur Solare Energiesysteme ISE

Corresponding Author:paul.gebhardt@ise.fraunhofer.de

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Ulli Kräling
Fraunhofer-Institut fur Solare Energiesysteme ISE
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Esther Fokuhl
Fraunhofer-Institut fur Solare Energiesysteme ISE
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Ingrid Hädrich
Fraunhofer-Institut fur Solare Energiesysteme ISE
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Daniel Philipp
Fraunhofer-Institut fur Solare Energiesysteme ISE
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Abstract

Tunnel oxide passivated contact TOPCon is poised to emerge as the predominant technology in photovoltaic (PV) cells, yet significant reliability issues remain unresolved. This study conducts a comparative analysis of 20 TOPCon PV module types, utilizing a range of electrical characterization and accelerated aging assessments. This investigation provides a detailed evaluation of the electrical performance, resulting in an Energy Rating of the modules, establishing a benchmark for cutting-edge TOPCon technology. While some failure modes, such as LeTID, appear to be non-critical, the findings confirm previously identified degradation pathways in TOPCon modules due to moisture penetration. During UV exposure, a novel degradation pattern was observed during the indoor tests, showing severe losses (up to -12% after 120 kWh/m 2), followed by recovery after humidity freeze-testing, which may influence outdoor performance and the outcomes of certification tests (IEC61730-2, Sequence B). The results highlight the areas of need for more targeted testing and technological refinement.
11 Jul 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
11 Jul 2024Submitted to Progress in Photovoltaics
12 Jul 2024Submission Checks Completed
12 Jul 2024Assigned to Editor
31 Jul 2024Reviewer(s) Assigned
03 Sep 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Minor
18 Sep 20241st Revision Received
03 Oct 2024Submission Checks Completed
03 Oct 2024Assigned to Editor
03 Oct 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
21 Oct 2024Editorial Decision: Accept