N-type solar panels are those which use phosphorus-doped silicon as the base material instead of the traditionally used boron-doped silicon. These solar panels have higher efficiency, longer lifespans, and better performance, especially in challenging environments.
Introduction
The solar industry harnesses the energy of the Sun to produce electricity and other applications. In 2025, it is one of the industries with the fastest rate of growth, thanks to technological advancements that portend a sustainable future. And N-type solar panels are a key component of this change.
But what are N-type panels, and how do they differ from conventional P-type panels?
This guide will cover all you need to know about this next-generation solar panel technology and why it’s revolutionising the game for homeowners, businesses, and developers.
How N-Type Solar Panels Are Made
On the surface level, the manufacturing process of n-type and p-type solar panels is the same. Except n-type panels have one extra step, i.e treating the silicon sheet with phosphorus gas to create an n-type layer, and then introducing boron to create the p-type layer.
By doing this, they provide more reliable performance, reduced degradation, and better performance compared to traditional p-types. It also makes them an attractive option for both residential and commercial purposes.
How N-Type Solar Panels Work
Phosphorus-doped silicon is used in N-type solar panels to produce an excess of free electrons, which charge the panel negatively. Now, when sunlight strikes, these free electrons travel through the N-type layer in the direction of the positive P-type layer, creating an electric current.
It produces a PN junction between the layers, enabling minimal loss and effective energy production. In contrast, the flow in P-type cells depends on “holes,” or the lack of electrons.
The Real-World Advantage: Higher Energy Harvest
One of the most impressive advantages of N-type solar cell panels is their higher minority carrier lifetime, meaning electrons can travel further before recombining. Even though this might not seem like much, it adds up over time – especially in larger systems, and increases the amount of energy that can be extracted from the same amount of sunlight by up to 3%.
The Differences Between P-Type And N-Type Solar Panels
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick comparison of N-type and P-type solar panels:
| Parameter | N-Type Panels | P-Type Panels |
| Base Material | Phosphorus-doped silicon | Boron-doped silicon |
| Efficiency (Lab) | Up to 26.7% | Max 23.6% |
| Real-World Degradation | 0.3–0.5%/year | 0.5–1.0%/year |
| LID (Light-Induced Loss) | None | Up to 10% in the first weeks |
| Temperature Coefficient | -0.30%/°C (Better in heat) | -0.50%/°C |
| Typical Warranty | 30-year performance | 25-year performance |
It is evident from the comparison table that N-type panels provide superior long-term value. Despite a slightly higher initial cost, you can anticipate over 25% more energy over the panels’ lifetime with a 30-year warranty.
Why N-Type Solar Panels Are Gaining Popularity
The solar market is evolving, and professionals are increasingly turning to solar panels that use solar photovoltaic technology like n-type for their outstanding performance. Here are a few reasons why these panels are becoming more popular:
- Efficiency Boost: Using Tunnel Oxide Treated Contact (TOPCon) technology, the N-type panels have attained an impressive efficiency of 24.5–25.7%, surpassing previous solar energy harvesting records.
- Zero Light-Induced Degradation (LID): N-type panels are not impacted by LID like P-type panels. And that’s why they can produce full-rated output from Day 1 and continue to operate efficiently over time.
- Heat Resilience: N-type panels perform better in hot climates, losing 3% less power at high temperatures compared to P-type panels.
- Bifacial Excellence: The solar cells in N-type panels can absorb sunlight from both sides (bifacial technology), increasing energy output by up to 25%. This is especially beneficial in installations with reflective surfaces.
- Durability: N-type cells are less sensitive to contaminants like metals and oxygen, leading to improved reliability and longer operational life.
Installing N-Type Solar Panels: Considerations
Even though N-type solar cell panels are more efficient, before installing them, it’s important to take into account the following pragmatic factors:
- Right-Sizing Your System: As N-type panels take up less space, you can use fewer panels to produce more power. For example, compared to a similar P-type configuration, a 10 kW system with N-type panels would require fewer panels.
- Climate Adaptability: N-type panels function remarkably well in hot climates and areas with frequent cloud cover. Their reduced sensitivity to temperature changes makes them perfect for a range of geographical locations.
- Cost vs. Benefit: Without a doubt, N-type solar cell panels have a higher upfront cost. However, their long-term savings on energy bills compensate more for sure. Plus, their durability and superior performance offer better value over time.
Inter Solar: Leading The Charge With N-Type Technology
At Inter Solar, we lead the way in solar innovation, providing innovative N-type solar panels, such as the Vega Series. With our monofacial and bifacial N-type products, we offer high-efficiency solar modules for residential, commercial, and utility-scale markets.
Whether you want to lower your electricity bill or help create a sustainable future, our N-type solar panels provide unparalleled performance and value.
Why N-Type Is The Future Of Solar Energy
N-type solar panels are not just a passing trend. They are the future of solar technology. With their increased efficiency, no degradation, and improved performance in hostile environments, these panels are emerging as the new norm for solar installations across the globe.
If you are looking for a trustworthy, long-term source of energy, N-type solar technology is the future. At Inter Solar, we infuse this cutting-edge technology into every module that we make, and it will pay for itself in years to come.
Are you prepared to switch to the newest solar technology in India? Explore Inter Solar’s N-type solar options right now.
FAQs
1. What distinguishes P-type solar panels from N-type solar panels?
Both the panels are almost the same except, N-type panels use phosphorus-doped silicon, which offers higher efficiency and no light-induced degradation, and P-type panels use boron-doped silicon, which experiences power loss over time.
2. How do N-type solar panels generate electricity?
N-type solar panels utilise free electrons from phosphorus-doped silicon to produce electricity more effectively, as opposed to P-type panels, which have to depend on “holes” for current flow.
3. Can N-type solar panels perform better in warmer environments?
Yes, N-type panels lose less power compared to P-type panels, and thus are suitable for hot climates.
4. Are N-type solar panels a worthwhile investment?
N-type panels cost more upfront but give better long-term value because they are more efficient, durable, and last longer.
5. How long do N-type solar panels last?
N-type panels usually have a 30-year warranty, providing consistent performance over many years.