Solar Panels Hit Record 26.66% Efficiency in China

Scientists in China just pushed solar power closer to its ultimate potential, setting a new world record that could make renewable energy even more affordable for millions.

A team led by Professor Ye Jichun at the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering achieved 26.66% power conversion efficiency in industrial-scale solar cells. That means more than a quarter of the sunlight hitting these panels gets converted into usable electricity.

The breakthrough centers on TOPCon technology, a type of crystalline silicon solar cell that's already gaining popularity worldwide because it works with existing factory equipment. Until now, mass-produced TOPCon cells couldn't match their theoretical efficiency, leaving precious energy gains on the table.

The research team, working with scientists from Jinko Solar and two Chinese universities, tackled the problem from both sides of the solar cell. On the front, they refined the electrical grid design to reduce energy loss during transport. On the back, they created a special double-layer structure that prevents silver from the electrodes from seeping into the silicon and degrading performance.

The results speak for themselves. The new cells achieved an impressive 83.8% of their theoretical efficiency limit, outperforming conventional TOPCon solar cells by a significant margin. The team's design also reached 88.3% bifaciality, meaning the cells can capture sunlight effectively from both sides.

Why This Inspires

This isn't just a laboratory curiosity. The team worked with large-area panels measuring 313.3 square centimeters, the same size used in actual solar farms and rooftop installations.

By narrowing the gap between theoretical and actual efficiency, the research published in Nature Energy on February 24 charts a clear path for manufacturers. Better efficiency means each panel produces more power, reducing the number of panels needed and lowering costs for homeowners and utilities alike.

The breakthrough strengthens solar technology's position in the global race toward clean energy. As TOPCon cells become more efficient and cost-effective, they're making renewable energy accessible to communities worldwide who need affordable, reliable power.

Every percentage point of efficiency gained is a step toward a cleaner, brighter future powered by the sun.