Canadian Solar Newly Launched Low-Carbon HJT Solar Modules Explained

Main source: CarbonCredits.com

Image : Canadian solar https://www.csisolar.com/module/

Canadian Solar’s new Low-Carbon Heterojunction HJT Solar modules are challenging the dominance of today’s mainstream monocrystalline PERC and TOPCon solar technologies. Below is a head-to-head look at how these next-generation panels compare on efficiency, environmental impact, and commercial prospects.

Core Technologies at a Glance

Feature	Low-Carbon HJT (Canadian Solar)	Commercial Monocrystalline PERC	N-Type TOPCon
Cell Structure	Intrinsic amorphous silicon layers on crystalline silicon wafer	Single-crystal silicon with passivated emitter & rear contact	Tunnel oxide passivated contact on N-type wafer
Max Module Efficiency	24.4 %	20–22 %	22–23.5 %
Power Output (per panel)	Up to 660 W	400–550 W	500–600 W
Manufacturing Temperature	<230 °C	~800–900 °C	~950–1050 °C
Energy Use per MW Produced	~105 MWh	~118 MWh	~115 MWh
Carbon Footprint	~285 kg CO₂/kWp	380–420 kg CO₂/kWp	350–400 kg CO₂/kWp

Technology Advantages

Canadian Solar Low-Carbon HJT Solar Modules

• Ultra-low emissions through high ingot utilization and thinner wafers (110 µm).

• Lower process temperatures cut factory energy needs and shorten carbon payback time by ~11 % compared with conventional N-type.

• Higher power density allows fewer modules per megawatt installed, trimming balance-of-system costs.

  
  

Monocrystalline PERC / TOPCon

• Mature supply chains with well-proven equipment and high production yields.

• Lower capital expenditure per GW than HJT; generally lower upfront cost per watt.

• Wide installer familiarity and abundant component compatibility.

Commercial Viability

• Premium Markets: For utility-scale projects where carbon accounting and ESG goals drive procurement, Canadian Solar’s HJT solar modules deliver measurable sustainability benefits.

• Price-Sensitive Markets: Conventional mono PERC still wins on absolute lowest cost per watt. TOPCon offers an intermediate path with slightly higher efficiency than PERC but lower carbon benefits than HJT.

• Scaling Risk: HJT relies on advanced wafer slicing and equipment; consistent gigawatt-level yields are still maturing compared with the well-oiled PERC/TOPCon lines.

Risk Factors in Manufacturing HJT Solar Modules

1. Capex & Yield – HJT solar modules requires expensive deposition equipment and careful handling of ultra-thin wafers, raising cost and breakage risk.

2. Supply Chain – Specialized thin-wafer and silver paste demand can create bottlenecks.

3. Market Acceptance – Buyers must weigh modest cost premiums against lifecycle carbon savings; subsidies or carbon credits may be key to rapid adoption.

   
   

Outlook

For buyers prioritizing lowest carbon footprint with high efficiency, Canadian Solar’s low-carbon HJT technology stands out. Yet mainstream monocrystalline PERC and evolving TOPCon modules remain formidable due to their cost leadership and production maturity. The next few years will reveal whether sustainability premiums can overcome entrenched price dynamics.