In our relentless pursuit of cleaner, more sustainable energy sources, solar power stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against climate change. Over the years, we have witnessed remarkable innovations in solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, and one of the most promising advancements is Heterojunction (HJT) technology.
In this post, we will discuss what makes HTJ technology so compelling and why you should consider it for your solar energy needs.
HJT technology: what is it?
HJT technology is a type of production method using solar panels. Currently, it is one of the most effective processes for increasing power output and efficiency.
HJT solar panels consist of three layers of PV material and its solar cells combine two different technologies: crystalline silicon and thin-film silicon. With these technologies combined, HJT solar panels can harvest more energy with higher efficiencies reaching up to 25% or higher.
Who has adopted HJT technology?
REC Solar is one of the manufacturers that have adopted HTJ technology with their Alpha Series. It was announced in 2019, and their HTJ solar panels were dubbed as the “world’s most powerful 60-cell solar panel.”
The REC Alpha Pure RX is built around 120 half-cut HTJ cells that can produce 20% more power. It is also suitable for tight spaces.
Another one is LONGi Solar, which has reached a new world recovery in 2022 in conversion efficiency of 26.5% for its HJT PV cells.
The benefits of HJT technology
HJT is a promising option for harnessing the power of the sun. Below are some of its benefits:
Superior efficiency
HJT solar panels boast higher conversion efficiencies than conventional PV technologies. Thus, this translates into a greater electricity yield per unit of sunlight.
With enhanced efficiency, it ensures that HJT systems generate more energy over their lifespan, maximising the return on investment for homeowners, businesses and utilities alike.
Better performance in high temperatures
Australia is known for its scorching summers, which can pose challenges for solar panels. HJT panels exhibit superior temperature tolerance and performance stability in high-temperature environments.
Traditional PV technologies often experience efficiency drops in extreme heat, whilst HJT technology maintains its effectiveness. As a result, this ensures consistent energy production even during heatwaves. Its resilience is a significant advantage for regions like Queensland and Western Australia, where soaring temperatures are the norm.
Reduced space requirements
HJT solar panels are compact and lightweight, which makes them excellent for installations with limited rooftop or ground space. This makes it ideal for urban areas with space constraints, whether for residential or commercial settings where every square meter counts.
Lower degradation rates
Degradation of solar panels is a natural process, which leads to reduced energy output over time. However, HJT technology usually has lower degradation rates compared to traditional PV labels. This means that HJT systems maintain their performance levels for longer periods, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Environmental sustainability
The nation’s commitment to environmental sustainability aligns seamlessly with HJT technology. The panels are produced with environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing processes.
Reduced energy consumption during production, lower greenhouse emissions, and minimal use of hazardous materials contribute to a smaller carbon footprint—a crucial consideration in the country’s efforts to combat climate change.
Diverse applications of HJT in Solar PV
HJT technology’s unique features make it an excellent choice for a wide range of applications, from traditional rooftop solar panels to large-scale solar farms and integrated solar systems within buildings. Below are the various applications of the technology:
A popular application of HJT technology is in rooftop solar panels because of their ability to maximise energy production, especially within a confined area. Its compact design is also a perfect fit for rooftops, which makes them excellent for urban and suburban environments.
Another application of HJT is in solar farms due to its minimal degradation it is advantageous for solar farm operators looking for long-term, reliable performance.
Also due to its design flexibility, HJT technology is ideal for integrated solar systems in buildings. They can easily be added to windows, facades and shading devices.
Finally, it’s also perfect for off-grid and remote applications because HJT panels have excellent low-light performance, perfect for areas where sunlight may be intermittent.
It also ensures a consistent power supply in remote areas, such as telecommunications towers, remote monitoring systems, and isolated communities. As a result, this results in a reduced need for backup generators or costly grid extensions.
Adopting HJT technology for homeowners and businesses
As HJT gains prominence in the world of solar PV, many homeowners and businesses are considering its adoption to harness its benefits. If you’re one them, here are some things to keep in mind:
Understand your energy needs
Assess your energy requirements and determine the amount of electricity you need to generate. Consider factors, such as:
- Location
- Energy consumption patterns
- Future growth in demand
Evaluate your location
HJT technology shines in sunny regions with high solar irradiances. Assess the solar potential of your location by considering annual sunlight hours, shading, and local weather patterns.
Choose reputable suppliers
Selecting the right HJT panel supplier is necessary for the success of your solar project. REC and LONGI have a track record of delivering high-quality HJT panels and reliable customer support.
Seek professional installation
HJT panels require precise installation to maximise performance and lifespan. Here at Energy Matters, we can connect you to professional solar installers in your area. They can ensure proper panel orientation, wiring and integration into your existing electrical system.
Consider financial incentives
Explore available financial incentives and subsidies for adopting solar technology in your region. In many countries, governments offer tax credits, rebates or feed-in-tariffs (FiTs) to encourage solar adoption. These incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost of HJT installations.
Consider energy storage
To maximise the benefits of the technology, consider integrating energy storage solutions such as batteries. This allows you to store excess energy for use during cloudy days or at night, increasing energy independence and reducing grid reliance.
HJT has proven itself a game-changer in the world of solar power. In a world where the demand for clean, renewable energy has never been more critical, HJT emerges as a beacon of innovation and efficiency.
Energy Matters has over 17 years of experience in the solar industry and has helped over 40,000 Australian households in their journey to energy independence.
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