Research collaboration to improve TOPCon solar cell efficiency

This research collaboration, announced in February 2026, focuses on enhancing the power conversion efficiency of Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) solar cells. Led by the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering, the partnership includes Zhejiang Jinko Solar Co., Ltd., Soochow University, and China Jiliang University. The collaboration aims to improve the performance of industrial TOPCon solar cells, a key technology in the solar energy sector. While the financial value of the partnership remains undisclosed, the involvement of a major solar manufacturer like Jinko Solar suggests a significant commitment to advancing TOPCon technology. The collaboration is strategically important for several reasons. First, it leverages the research capabilities of academic institutions with the industrial expertise of a leading solar company. Second, focusing on TOPCon technology aligns with the industry's trend towards higher efficiency solar cells. Third, the partnership's location in China, a dominant player in solar manufacturing and deployment, positions it to rapidly translate research findings into commercial applications. The success of this collaboration could lead to more efficient and cost-effective solar energy generation, further accelerating the adoption of solar power globally.