Based on current industry data and testing standards, no major solar panel brands have a positive temperature coefficient. All commercially available solar panels exhibit negative temperature coefficients, meaning their efficiency decreases as temperatures rise. Below are key findings:
- Industry Standard:
Every major brand analyzed—including Maxeon, REC, Panasonic, Canadian Solar, and Jinko Solar—uses photovoltaic technology with negative coefficients (typically between -0.24%/°C and -0.35%/°C).- Panasonic Evervolt: Best-in-class coefficient of -0.24%/°C.
- REC Alpha Pure: Similarly low -0.24%/°C for hot climates.
- Maxeon 7: -0.27%/°C, paired with top-tier efficiency (24.1%).
- Technology Limitations:
- Monocrystalline N-Type HJT cells (used in high-end panels) have the lowest coefficients (-0.25% to -0.27%/°C) but remain negative.
- Thin-film panels historically have lower coefficients (closer to -0.20%/°C) but are rarely used in residential applications today.
- Performance Impact:
At 65°C cell temperature (common in summer), panels lose 15-20% efficiency compared to STC ratings (25°C).
For users in hot climates, REC Alpha Pure or Panasonic Evervolt provide the best temperature resilience. Always verify real-world performance using PTC ratings (tested at 20°C ambient, closer to actual conditions) rather than STC ratings.
STC = Standard Test Conditions (25°C lab environment)
PTC = PVUSA Test Conditions (20°C with wind simulation)
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-solar-panel-brands-known-for-having-a-positive-temperature-coefficient/
