TCL SunPower Unveils Solar C2 Back-Contact Panels in Europe
TCL SunPower Global has officially launched its TCL Solar C2 back-contact module range in Europe, marking a significant milestone in the renewable energy sector. Starting this month, installers and distributors across the continent can place their orders as the first shipments are set to arrive in the UK.
The TCL Solar C2 modules, which were originally showcased at both SNEC in Shanghai and Intersolar Europe in Munich earlier in June, represent the company's latest offering in solar technology. With this launch, TCL transitions from mere announcement to providing a readily available solution for a variety of solar installations, encompassing residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
According to Steven Zhang, General Manager of TCL SunPower Global, the C2 module signifies a leap forward for the brand's back-contact technology platform. This launch follows the company's strategic acquisition of DAS Solar's back-contact cell and module manufacturing operations, completed in July. The ramp-up in production aligns with TCL's commitment to pushing the engineering behind its solar solutions, capitalizing on an impressive portfolio of over 1,600 back-contact patents and four decades of industry experience.
The TCL Solar C2 line includes two distinct configurations, catering to both small residential roofs and larger commercial projects. The C2 S Black model, tailored for residential installations, offers an output of up to 495 W with a remarkable efficiency of 23.8%. In contrast, the C2 L and C2 L UPP models are designed for utility-scale projects, boasting outputs up to 670 W and an impressive efficiency of 24.8%. These configurations also feature a unique bifacial design, providing up to 85% efficiency increase on certain variants.
One standout feature of the C2 panels is their innovative design, which eliminates metal busbars on the front side. This enhancement results in a more active cell surface exposed to sunlight, contributing to an over 5% increase in usable power density compared to traditional front-contact panels of similar dimensions. Furthermore, the panels boast a temperature coefficient of -0.26%/°C and a low annual degradation rate of less than 0.35%, ensuring that they retain approximately 88.85% of their original output even after three decades of service.
Moreover, each C2 module is backed by an extensive warranty package, offering a 25-year product warranty along with a 30-year power warranty, depending on the specific model chosen. Karin Alberto Burkhardt, Director of PV Products at TCL SunPower Global, emphasized that the efficiency gains stem not from surface coatings or firmware adjustments, but from a fundamental increase in the active cell area exposed to sunlight. This also explains the uniform black aesthetic of the residential S Black model, which contributes to its visual appeal while enhancing performance.
For commercial and utility-scale applications, the C2 L and C2 L UPP variants are constructed with bifacial glass-glass designs that optimize performance in a variety of conditions. These panels not only achieve better efficiency but also exhibit superior low-light response and reduced power loss due to shading when compared to standard solar cells. The promise of 'Better by Design' is woven throughout these new panel offerings, merging aesthetics and functionality through thoughtful engineering choices.
The TCL Solar C2 series is now available through an established network of authorized distributors throughout Europe, making it easier for installers and commercial buyers to integrate this advanced solar technology into their projects. Prospective customers can locate their nearest distributor by visiting the official TCL Solar website at
tclsolar.com/distributors.
In summary, the arrival of the TCL Solar C2 back-contact panels marks a pivotal advancement in solar energy technology, showcasing TCL SunPower’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and meeting diverse market needs. With these high-performance products, TCL aims to redefine solar energy expectations across Europe while fostering a robust energy future.