News

In 2023, the solar industry was abuzz with the breakthrough of busbar-free technology, known as 0BB or ZBB. By 2024, these busbar-free solar modules had become a highlight at major solar exhibitions like SNEC PV Power Expo Shanghai.

Just like many high-efficiency technologies in the history of solar PV, 0BB quickly transitioned from a new innovation to widespread adoption, driving significant advancements in the industry.

What is a Busbar in Solar Cells?

Busbars are parallel lines on the surface of solar cells that collect and convert solar energy into electricity. Over the years, the number of busbars increased from 2BB to as many as 21BB. This increase aimed to reduce silver usage while enhancing the cell’s ability to collect electrical current, thus improving efficiency.

What is 0BB/ZBB?

Busbar-free technology, also known as 0BB (Zero Busbar) or ZBB (Zero Busbar by Astronergy), eliminates the front-side busbars on solar cells. Instead, the module’s ribbons collect the current from the fine gridlines and interconnect the cells. This innovation reduces costs and boosts efficiency.

Impact on Solar Technologies: HJT, TOPCon, and BC

0BB technology is crucial for competing technologies like HJT (Heterojunction), TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact), and BC (Back Contact) because it can be applied across these platforms.

In a fiercely competitive PV industry, technological advancement and cost reduction are essential to stay ahead.

By 2023, the industrialization of 0BB technology was already in motion. By 2024, most leading manufacturers had launched mass-produced 0BB products.

The adoption of 0BB/ZBB technology is driving cost reductions and efficiency improvements in the solar PV industry. While not the sole factor, the successful mass production of 0BB will impact the competitive landscape of TOPCon, HJT, and BC technologies. As the industry evolves, maintaining technological advancement and cost efficiency will be crucial to staying competitive.