Huasun Energy chairman Jimmy Xu took part in discussions with industry leaders at a round-table session at the recently held Photovoltaic Industry Supply Chain Development Forum in Xuancheng, China. Among areas debated were the next-generation technology roadmap for the PV industry, strategies for distinctive competitive advantage and supply chain integration.
Surging demand in the PV market has accelerated the need for technological development. Looking at current n-type technologies, Xu pointed out that both TOPCon and HJT are third-generation mainstream technology pathways following PERC, and they will lead the development of cell technology over the coming years.
At present, TOPCon is progressing more rapidly, with its production capacity set to exceed 600GW during 2023, with HJT capacity projected to reach 150GW by 2025. However, based on its current rate of progress, Xu believes that the HJT era will arrive sooner than expected, with HJT technology replacing outdated production capacity as part of an irreversible trend.
Looking at the challenges faced by the current new technology pathways during the industrialization process, Xu explained that HJT needs to address the stability of its upstream material supply chain and achieve a balance between high efficiency and high production capacity.
To make PV a mainstream energy source, reducing reliance on precious metals and rare elements is a significant challenge for solar companies. HJT has, however, made rapid progress in this area since, with the application of 0BB and silver-plated copper, the silver paste costs associated with HJT are expected to ultimately be lower than those for PERC.
At the same time, a low indium target solution is about to be fully introduced in mass production. The goal is to reduce indium usage in manufacturing by more than 2/3, ultimately achieving indium-free production. Additionally, HJT involves a simple and intelligent production process, potentially embracing a “lights-out factory” concept and reducing future labour costs.
Distinctive competition: Concentrating on core business
In terms of product homogeneity, Xu believes that, as the PV industry matures, homogeneity becomes inevitable. To stand out in such a market, the key is to adhere to technological innovation and a distinctive approach. While most global companies have opted for TOPCon, Huasun has chosen HJT, becoming the first mover and successfully seizing a leading advantage in mass production.
Looking ahead, as Heterojunction-Perovskite tandem cell mass production technology becomes mature, the company will continue to deliver groundbreaking advancements to the industry, ushering in a new era defined by “HJT+X”.
