In an exclusive interview with TaiyangNews Managing Director Michael Schmela during the TaiyangNews SNEC Solar Leadership Conversations 2025 at SNEC 2025, LONGi Group Vice President Dennis She highlighted the company's efforts to make back contact technology a cost-effective solution across diverse application scenarios.
As one of the world’s largest solar PV manufacturers, LONGi pursues back contact (BC) technology even though TOPCon has become the current industry workhorse. It sees the technology becoming mainstream over the next few years with a higher level of penetration.
LONGi’s She says the company has spent over $1 billion in BC technology R&D and built 50 GW annual production capacity as it targets to introduce this high efficiency technology across all scenarios.
From what used to be a niche product for the rooftop application, BC is now taking strides in the utility-scale as well, which is where LONGi sees it adding value while offering reliability. Compared to TOPCon, within the same configuration at utility-scale, BC brings at least 5% to 6% more in installed capacity, and also adds to the aesthetics.
The Chinese manufacturer is also targeting innovative applications, such as agrivoltaics and floating solar, with its high-efficiency BC modules. These segments typically face higher balance of system (BOS) costs compared to traditional ground-mounted projects, explained the LONGi VP, prompting developers to seek modules that maximize efficiency to help offset overall system expenses.
LONGi’s BC modules are now available across all major European markets, thanks to customers who are open to adopting new technologies. According to Dennis She, the company expects around 90% of its European shipments next year to consist of BC modules. Outside Europe, LONGi is also ramping up its BC presence in key markets such as the Middle East, where utility-scale projects are being deployed at massive volumes.
The complete interview with Dennis She is available on TaiyangNews YouTube channel.
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