JA Solar claims 20% multi-Si efficiency record

Chinese manufacturer JA Solar claims to have achieved a record 20% conversion efficiency in one of its multicrystalline PV cells.

This surpasses its own previous record of 19% set back in February, though the company did not specify if the new conversion rate had been independently verified.

JA Solar said the 1% increase had been achieved through its advanced light trapping and surface passivation technologies.

Yong Liu, chief operating officer of JA Solar, said: "JA Solar set a new world record for multi-Si cell efficiency by breaking the 20% barrier. This accomplishment once again demonstrates JA Solar's unrivalled ability to advance PV technology, and creates value for our customers by increasing power generation and reducing installation costs."

JA Solar said it planned to mass produce multi-Si cells using its new technology, with integration of its new high-efficiency multi-Si cells into commercial module assemblies scheduled for 2015.