SNEC 2017: The next big solar module trend on display

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Reddit
Email
SolarWorld's Bisun cells used in bifacial modules. Image: SolarWorld.

SNEC 11th (2017) International Photovoltaic Power Generation Conference & Exhibition (SNEC 2017) in Shanghai, China maybe the largest annual exhibition in the solar industry but its sheer size and number of attendee’s can often mask emerging trends that are better highlighted at other events such as Solar Power International (SPI) in the US. 

Some good examples would be the introduction of 1,500V solar modules or 72-cell modules, both driven by the PV utility-scale market in the US and primarily showcased for several years at SPI in Las Vegas. Such modules have since become mainstream product offerings and are being adopted in other markets around the world.

This article requires Premium SubscriptionBasic (FREE) Subscription

Try Premium for just $1

  • Full premium access for the first month at only $1
  • Converts to an annual rate after 30 days unless cancelled
  • Cancel anytime during the trial period

Premium Benefits

  • Expert industry analysis and interviews
  • Digital access to PV Tech Power journal
  • Exclusive event discounts

Or get the full Premium subscription right away

Or continue reading this article for free

However, SNEC 2017 should not be remembered for its massive booth screens or deafening promotional videos fighting for attention but a technology that is born out of another technology that is setting its own major trend and industry transition. 

Shanghai shows its bifaciality

PV Tech alluded to this next big trend in modules at the beginning of the week when we reported that the world’s first full-size IBC bifacial module would be displayed at SNEC this year. 

Bifacial modules in general, notably from the migration to PERC but of course applies to PERT, HJ and IBC cells, provides solar cell producers with the option to fabricate cells on both sides of the wafer, boosting efficiency. 

Actual production volumes of bifacial modules in 2017, is very small but that is about to change, especially considering the number of companies showcasing bifacial modules at SNEC. 

Though time does not allow product reviews at this time, we thought a partial pictorial selection of some of the bifacial modules being displayed on booths at SNEC, should adequately demonstrate that a recent niche product could be set for the mainstream, very shortly.

The Solar Energy Research Institute of Singapore (SERIS) at the National University of Singapore (NUS) has developed the world’s first full-sized Interdigitated Back Contact (IBC) bifacial solar module using International Solar Energy Research Center (ISC) Konstanz, ‘ZEBRA’ solar cells.
Jinneng Clean Energy Technology (Jinergy) said it would be starting mass production of its N-type monocrystalline bifacial heterojunction (HJ) modules in 2017.
Yingli Green Energy's PANDA cell design now comes in bifacial form and in production.
QXPV (NINGBO QIXIN SOLAR ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE CO., LTD has a selection of bifacial modules.

Read Next

October 9, 2025
The retroactive collection of duties on historical solar imports to the US has been temporarily paused pending the outcome of an appeal.
October 8, 2025
US solar module prices jumped in Q3 2025 as developers scrambled to meet the 2 September 2025 safe harbour deadline for Investment Tax Credit (ITC) qualification, according to supply chain platform Anza.
October 8, 2025
University of Sydney scientists have created the largest and most efficient triple-junction perovskite-perovskite-silicon solar cell on record.
October 8, 2025
Saatvik Green Energy has secured new solar PV module orders worth more than INR7 billion (US$84 million), to be delivered in this financial year.
October 7, 2025
Econergy will acquire 100% stake in the 155MW Ratesti solar project in Romania, further expanding its European renewable energy portfolio.
October 7, 2025
Juniper Green Energy through its subsidiary Juniper Green Sigma Eight has signed a 70MW power purchase agreement with renewable energy giant Tata Power. 

Subscribe to Newsletter

Upcoming Events

Solar Media Events
October 21, 2025
New York, USA
Solar Media Events
November 25, 2025
Warsaw, Poland
Solar Media Events
December 2, 2025
Málaga, Spain
Solar Media Events
February 3, 2026
London, UK