PERC vs. TOPCon: 3 Decisive Factors for Choosing the Right Solar Technology in Syria

An investor considering a solar module factory in Syria faces a compelling paradox. The country boasts exceptional solar irradiation, with many regions receiving over 5 kWh per square meter daily—a resource ripe for development. However, this same intense sunlight brings extreme ambient temperatures, which can significantly degrade the performance of standard solar panels.

Research confirms that in the Syrian climate, a solar module’s operating temperature can easily exceed 70°C. This heat can cause a power loss of 15–20% compared to the figures advertised under standardized lab conditions. This isn’t a minor detail; it’s a critical business factor that directly impacts the energy yield, financial returns, and long-term bankability of any solar project that uses locally manufactured modules.

The key to success lies in choosing a production technology specifically suited to perform under these demanding conditions.

Understanding the Challenge: Why Standard Modules Underperform in Syria

The performance of a solar module is officially rated under Standard Test Conditions (STC), which assume a cell temperature of 25°C and an irradiance of 1000 W/m². While useful for comparing products, these conditions are rarely met in the real world, especially in the Middle East.

A 2023 study by Mousa et al. on solar energy potential in Syria highlights this discrepancy. The high ambient temperatures common across the country push module operating temperatures consistently well above the 25°C STC baseline.

This reality makes a crucial technical specification paramount: the temperature coefficient. This metric defines how much power a solar module loses for every degree Celsius its temperature rises above 25°C.

A module with a lower (i.e., better) temperature coefficient will maintain more of its power output in hot weather, generating more electricity over its lifetime. For a manufacturing facility in Syria, producing modules with an excellent temperature coefficient is not just an advantage—it is a market necessity.

A Tale of Two Technologies: PERC and TOPCon Explained

For the past decade, the global solar industry has been dominated by PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology. It represented a major leap in efficiency over previous standards and became the workhorse of the industry. PERC technology improves efficiency by adding a special layer to the back of the solar cell, which helps capture more light.

But technology rarely stands still, and a successor is rapidly becoming the new industry standard: TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact). TOPCon is an evolution of the PERC architecture. It adds an ultra-thin tunnel oxide layer and a layer of highly doped polysilicon, which further reduce energy losses within the cell.

For the investor and the end-user, this structural enhancement translates into two primary business benefits: higher conversion efficiency (more watts per square meter) and, critically for the Syrian context, superior performance at high temperatures.

The Decisive Factor: Performance in High Temperatures

When evaluating technologies for a hot climate, the temperature coefficient is the most important performance indicator. Data from a 2022 report by the renowned Fraunhofer ISE institute on module performance in desert environments makes the difference clear:

Standard PERC modules typically have a temperature coefficient of around -0.35% per degree Celsius.

TOPCon modules consistently demonstrate a better temperature coefficient, often around -0.30% per degree Celsius.

While this difference of 0.05% may seem small, its cumulative impact is significant. In a climate like Syria’s, this seemingly minor technical advantage can result in a 1–2% higher annual energy yield. Over the 25-year lifespan of a solar power plant, this additional energy generation translates directly into improved project revenue and a stronger return on investment.

Furthermore, the Fraunhofer study notes that the TOPCon cell structure can offer better long-term stability and lower rates of Light-Induced Degradation (LID). This durability is a key selling point for modules intended for large-scale utility projects where reliable, long-term performance is paramount.

This technology choice directly impacts the process of selecting the right solar module manufacturing equipment for your factory.

Future-Proofing Your Investment: Market Trends and Production Lines

Beyond technical performance, an investor must consider the market trajectory. The ‘Global Solar Technology & Market Report 2023’ from SolarPower Europe reveals a definitive and rapid industry shift. TOPCon is projected to overtake PERC and exceed 50% of the global market share by 2024.

This trend has direct strategic implications for any new manufacturing venture. Establishing a production line that can only produce PERC modules today presents a significant market risk. The products may be considered outdated or less competitive within just a few years.

Fortunately, modern manufacturing solutions account for this transition. Many equipment suppliers offer lines that can initially run PERC and later be upgraded to TOPCon with manageable additional investment. Planning for this flexibility is a key part of setting up a turnkey solar production line. Based on experience from J.v.G. turnkey projects, the most prudent strategy is to specify a line that balances initial cost with future upgradeability. This approach secures the long-term relevance of the factory’s output.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is TOPCon technology significantly more expensive to produce than PERC?

The cost difference between producing PERC and TOPCon is narrowing quickly due to economies of scale and process optimization. While TOPCon may require a slightly higher initial capital expenditure for equipment, the higher efficiency and energy yield of the final product often delivers a faster payback period, justifying the modest additional investment.

Can a single factory produce both PERC and TOPCon modules?

Yes. Many modern solar production lines are designed with an upgrade path in mind. A factory can be set up to begin with PERC production and, once the market demands it, be upgraded to TOPCon by adding a few specific process machines. This enables a phased investment strategy.

How does the choice of technology affect the certification process?

The fundamental certification requirements (such as IEC 61215 and IEC 61730) apply to all crystalline silicon module technologies. However, the specific performance data, including the temperature coefficient and degradation rates, will be tested and validated for the chosen technology. Passing the solar panel certification process is essential for market access, especially for commercial and utility-scale projects.

If PERC is a mature technology, is it not a lower-risk choice?

PERC represents a lower technological risk, as the processes are well-established. However, it presents a higher market risk. Investing in a technology that the global market is moving away from could make competing on performance and price difficult in the near future. TOPCon is the current state-of-the-art, and it’s where the industry is heading.

Making an Informed Decision for the Syrian Market

For an entrepreneur planning to establish a solar module factory in Syria, the choice between PERC and TOPCon is a strategic one. While PERC technology is proven, the specific climatic challenges of the region—intense sun and high heat—play directly to the strengths of TOPCon.

A manufacturing line focused on TOPCon will produce modules that:

1. Perform Better: Delivering higher energy yields in the local climate.
2. Prove More Durable: Offering greater long-term stability and reliability.
3. Remain Future-Proof: Aligning with global market trends and ensuring competitiveness.

Understanding these technological fundamentals is the first essential step toward developing a sound business plan and a successful manufacturing operation. It ensures the final product is not just made in Syria, but made for Syria.