Hanwha Qcells Becomes First in the World to Pass International Test for Tandem Module... Next-Generation Cell Commercialization Nears

Module Equipped with Perovskite-Silicon Tandem (Dual) Cell
Certified by International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and U.S. Safety Testing Organization

Hanwha Solutions Qcells Division (Hanwha Qcells) has become the first in the world to pass an international standard reliability test for the commercialization of next-generation solar cells.

According to a press release distributed by Hanwha Qcells America on May 22, a module equipped with a 'perovskite-silicon tandem (dual) cell' produced at the company's pilot plant in Thalheim, Germany, recently passed a reliability test based on the certification standards of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a U.S. safety testing organization.

Yonhap News Agency

The tandem cell is a next-generation solar cell that vertically stacks a perovskite cell and a crystalline silicon cell, each absorbing light from different spectral ranges, to increase power generation efficiency. Its efficiency is nearly 50% higher than that of conventional panels, greatly enhancing the economic viability of solar power generation, and is regarded as a 'game changer' in the solar market.

Previously, in December of last year, Hanwha Qcells received certification for the power conversion efficiency of its large-area M10 (330.56㎠) tandem cell from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems in Germany. Now, by passing a long-term stress test (reliability verification), the company has also proven its durability.

Industry observers believe that by obtaining these international certifications, Hanwha Qcells has cleared a major hurdle on the path to commercialization of next-generation solar cells.

Daniel Mulfeld, Global Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Hanwha Qcells, stated, "This certification is a very decisive turning point for tandem cell technology," adding, "Qcells' groundbreaking achievement is an important step toward commercialization."