BC outperforms TOPcon series – Part 1: Hi-MO X10 with HPBC 2.0 excels in the shadow and soiling showdown

As photovoltaic technology evolves, real-world reliability has become the defining factor for performance, especially under challenging conditions such as shading and surface soiling.

LONGi’s Hi-MO X10, powered by HPBC 2.0 technology, is engineered to maintain stable power generation where traditional module designs lose energy due to shading and soiling.

In our ongoing comparison series “BC outperforms TOPCon” we put Hi-MO X10 (HPBC 2.0, 640 W) and a TOPCon (610W) module through two independent laboratory tests. The results highlight how LONGi’s back-contact design safeguards output, safety, and long-term yield.

Round 1: Shadow occlusion experiment demonstrates HPBC 2.0’s stable output under shade

Testing shading scenarios

Both modules were tested under identical lighting and shading conditions, simulating real-world situations such as tree shadows, utility poles, and moving cloud bands.

Results and insights

Conventional front contact TOPCon modules experience significant performance drops when even a small portion of the cell surface is shaded.

In contrast, Hi-MO X10 maintains energy generation thanks to its back contact cell design, which allows current to autonomously bypass shaded cells.

This architecture reduces power loss by up to 70 percent compared to traditional designs and effectively prevents hotspot formation, ensuring continuous, safe operation even under partial shading.

Outcome

HPBC 2.0 shows more stable performance, longer power generation periods, and improved reliability in diverse installation environments.

Video 1: Shadow Occlusion Experiment – See how Hi-MO X10 with HPBC 2.0 keeps producing power under shade.

Round 2: The soiling showdown shows HPBC 2.0’s dust resistance

Testing dust impact

The second experiment focused on how dust accumulation and band soiling affect power generation.

Both modules, Hi-MO X10 Guardian Anti-Dust (HPBC 2.0, 640 W) and TOPCon (610 W), were tested under three conditions: clean surfaces, light dust, and frame soiling bands.

Results and insights

Under clean conditions, the Hi-MO X10 demonstrated a 3.28 percent higher power output than the TOPCon module, confirming its superior baseline efficiency. When a thin layer of dust was added to the surface, both modules experienced reduced power generation, but the Hi-MO X10’s power loss was limited to 10 percent, compared to 11.5 percent for the TOPCon module. This represents a measurable 1.5 percent advantage in maintaining output under light dust conditions.

The most striking differences were observed during the frame soiling band test. The TOPCon module showed significant dust buildup at the lower frame edge, resulting in a 26 percent power drop and visible hotspot formation. The Hi-MO X10, by contrast, maintained stable output thanks to its lowered short-edge frame design, which enables rainwater to naturally wash away accumulated dust. This self-cleaning advantage prevents soiling bands from forming and significantly reduces the risks of hotspot damage or power degradation over time.

Outcome

Through this test, the Hi-MO X10’s anti-dust design clearly demonstrated its ability to minimize energy loss and operational risks. By maintaining cleaner surfaces and more consistent performance, it offers tangible benefits in both system efficiency and long-term plant revenue, particularly in environments prone to dust accumulation or limited maintenance access.

Video 2 Soiling Showdown – Watch how its anti-dust design preserves output.

Conclusion: HPBC 2.0 delivers superior real-world performance

From shade to dust, the Hi-MO X10 with HPBC 2.0 technology consistently delivers power and safety where other modules falter.

By combining anti-shading and anti-soiling innovations, LONGi ensures that system owners and operators gain maximum energy yield, reliability, and return on investment, even under the toughest environmental conditions.

Watch out for the next round of the BC Outperforms TOPCon series as we continue exploring how Hi-MO X10 redefines real-world module performance.