The role of aesthetics in solar and when technology becomes the driver of aesthetics

In recent years, demand for solar energy has grown significantly across Europe. As customers benefit from ever-increasing module efficiencies, another trend is taking hold from consumer electronics and other sectors: the increasing demand for aesthetics. An increasing number of homeowners, businesses and developers are looking for solar modules that not only provide high power output but also integrate seamlessly into the design of modern architecture. This assessment has been confirmed by repeated customer surveys. At LONGi, we believe that listening to what the market needs is fundamental. Since the launch of our first back contact module, the Hi-MO X6, in November 2022, the Artist has been an integral part of the series. It is the epitome of aesthetic excellence.

However, it is not merely achieved through a complete black finish. The true game-changer and the driving force behind the modules' aesthetic appeal is the underlying back contact technology. Busbars on the front side of a conventional module often detract from the sleek and elegant appearance. In modules based on back contact technology, these are absent.

The principle of back contact technology

Back contact technology is designed to position both the positive and negative contacts on the rear side of the cell, leaving the front surface free of obstructions. This is a highly sought-after feature by customers when seeking an aesthetically pleasing solar installation. By keeping the front clear, the cell can achieve maximum exposure to sunlight, enhancing its ability to absorb light effectively.

The North-South divide in the application of solar aesthetics

Europe has long been at the forefront of environmental awareness, with many countries leading global efforts in the adoption of renewable energy. In recent years, however, aesthetics have become an equally important factor in the decision to install solar, particularly in densely populated urban areas where architectural integration is a priority.

In countries such as Germany, France and the Benelux, as well as most of the Scandinavian countries, where solar panels are becoming a common sight on homes, businesses and even historic buildings, there is a growing desire for modules that do not detract from the building's appearance. Traditional solar panels, with their visible wiring and contrasting silver frames, often clash with both modern and traditional architectural styles. This has created a demand for solar solutions that are both powerful and visually unobtrusive. The combination of back contact and all black has proven to be the preferred choice for these countries. While performance and design are important in northern Europe, functionality and performance are more important in southern Europe.

Hi-MO X6 Max Full Black eliminates these visible wires and busbars, leaving the front surface completely unobstructed.

The trend towards the fusion of technology and aesthetics has started much earlier

Aesthetics play an important role in the acceptance and satisfaction of home technologies. This trend has been going on for some time, and is based on the simple fact that the first impression of a product is usually visual.

From Samsung's “The Frame” televisions, which are aesthetically designed to meet the demands of art lovers, to sleek smartphones and minimalist websites, the evolution of aesthetics is here to stay and is leading to an increasing fusion of form and function.

Several studies have explored this relationship. Research shows that users often judge the usability of a product based on its aesthetic appeal. Another study found that over 45% of consumers judge the credibility of a website based on design elements such as layout and colour schemes. The same applies to the integration of aesthetics and functionality in smart home devices. Consumers prefer devices that not only perform well, but also complement their home décor. As a result, designers are now focusing on creating products that blend seamlessly into living spaces.

In general, one can observe a shift from purely functional objects to lifestyle-oriented products. This is because aesthetics serve as a bridge between a product and the user's emotions. An aesthetically pleasing design can evoke positive emotional responses, leading to increased satisfaction and attachment to the product.

What does this mean for solar panels? Aesthetics have a significant impact on user perception and acceptance of home technologies, and therefore on purchase decisions. While this varies from country to country in Europe, designs that harmoniously combine functionality with visual appeal are more likely to be accepted by users, increasing both usability and overall satisfaction. This is as true for a TV as it is for a solar panel.

The Hi-MO X6 Max Artist symbols aesthetics with no compromise on power

LONGi has gone beyond just aesthetics with the Hi-MO X6 Max Artist. While the exterior boasts an ultra-sleek, uniform black appearance, the real magic lies within its advanced technological features that ensure high efficiency and robust power output.

It offers up to 410W of power and features LONGi’s HPBC (Hybrid Passivated Back Contact) technology which is one of the driving factors behind its impressive performance. By eliminating front-side electrical components, LONGi has created a solar module that maximizes the exposure of solar cells to sunlight while maintaining a clean, all-black surface that is free from visible wiring or solder points.

The benefits of back-contact technology extend far beyond aesthetics

We have repeatedly stated that we believe that back-contact technology will be the future solar technology path that the industry will follow in the medium term. This is because it has a number of advantages over conventional technologies. Two of these are most impactful.

Back contact cells have higher efficiency

By moving the electrical contacts to the back, the front surface is exposed to more sunlight, allowing the cells to capture more energy. This results in a higher overall module efficiency and power output. However, it's not just the expected maximum wattage that matters. What really determines performance is the operating time during the day. A back-contact module generally performs better in low light conditions than conventional technologies such as TOPCon. This means that they start working early in the morning and finish later in the day, when the last rays of sunshine hit the horizon. The result is a higher energy output and this economic value and higher yields.

BC modules provide enhanced durability and reliability

LONGi back contact modules use a back-contact soldering technology that deploys a single-line solder structure instead of the traditional Z-shaped structure. This cell contacting results in lower mechanical stress on the cells and increases the resistance to microcracks and thus also the protection of the cells since the cell edge stress is almost halved.

Therefore, with fewer soldered connections and less stresss on the front side of the module, back-contact solar panels are more durable and have good degradation parameters.

Together with advanced heat dissipation, which is particularly important for hot climates to ensure efficiency, and the mentioned low light performance to maximize energy generation even on overcast days, back contact modules unite everything residential and C&I customers can ask for.