For decades P-type cells were the industry standard. Today N-type cells — the basis of TOPCon, HJT and IBC modules — are taking their place. The difference starts in the silicon doping and ends in efficiency, degradation and the energy delivered over 25 years.
P-type: the old standard
P-type cells are made of silicon doped with boron, which gives a positive polarity. Their great appeal was the lower manufacturing cost and wide availability, which made them common in residential and commercial systems. Their limits are a lower efficiency, usually 17% to 21%, and a higher initial degradation from LID (light-induced degradation), caused by boron-oxygen complexes in the first hours of sunlight.
N-type: the new generation
N-type cells are doped with phosphorus and have a negative polarity. The technology, used in TOPCon, HJT and IBC modules, offers higher efficiency (20% to 24%), practically no LID, lower degradation over the years, a better temperature coefficient (it loses less power in the heat), better low-light performance and longer durability. Manufacturing used to be more expensive, but production at scale has made N-type cost-competitive.
Where the market is heading
The photovoltaic market is in a clear transition: P-type is still around because of price, but N-type already dominates large projects and is increasingly the standard in residential and commercial installations, with industry reports projecting most global production in N-type. For maximum efficiency, low degradation and a long service life, choose N-type modules, especially TOPCon and HJT. P-type may still be considered in low-budget projects, but its relevance is falling fast.
N-type vs P-type
| Feature | P-type | N-type |
|---|---|---|
| Average efficiency | 17% – 21% | 20% – 24% |
| Initial degradation | High (LID present) | Very low |
| Production cost | Lower | Higher, falling fast |
| Availability | Declining | Mainstream |
| Durability | Good | Excellent |
| Market trend | In decline | On the rise |