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July 9, 2025
Swiss Researchers Streamline TOPCon Solar Cell Fabrication with Single-Step Annealing
Swiss Researchers Streamline TOPCon Solar Cell Fabrication with Single-Step Annealing
Researchers from the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) and the Center Suisse d’Electronique et de Microtechnique (CSEM) have developed a simplified, single-step annealing process for fabricating tunnel oxide passivating contact (TOPCon) solar cells. This new approach aims to reduce manufacturing complexity and lower the energy payback time of photovoltaic (PV) modules.
Traditionally, TOPCon production involves a two-step annealing process. By replacing this with a single-step method using plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), the researchers were able to form boron emitters and polysilicon (poly-Si) passivating layers simultaneously on both sides of the cell. The boron emitter profile was precisely controlled by adjusting PECVD parameters and annealing conditions.
To ensure compatibility, the team evaluated various poly-Si contacts for passivation quality, conductivity, and chemical resistance. A challenge with high-temperature stability was overcome through a nitrous oxide (N₂O) plasma treatment, achieving up to 720 mV at 900 °C.
A proof-of-concept device using this process reached an impressive efficiency of 20.99%, achieved within just a few fabrication runs. The researchers highlighted this as early evidence that co-annealing can effectively integrate front and rear cell structures.
Looking ahead, they plan to refine emitter profiles and passivation layers, and are exploring perovskite/TOPCon tandem cells as a next step toward commercial viability. Learn more about this topic here.
July 20, 2025
Panasonic Energy Powers Ahead with New EV Battery Factory in Kansas
Panasonic Energy Powers Ahead with New EV Battery Factory in Kansas
Panasonic Energy has officially launched its newest electric vehicle (EV) battery factory in De Soto, Kansas—marking a major step in the company’s commitment to expanding U.S.-based battery production. This is Panasonic Energy’s second American facility, following its Nevada site that began operations in 2017.
Covering roughly 121 hectares, the Kansas factory is now producing 2170 cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells at scale. Once fully operational, the site is expected to achieve an annual production capacity of 32 GWh, contributing to Panasonic's goal of boosting its total U.S. output to approximately 73 GWh.
This new facility features next-generation labor-saving production lines, projected to increase productivity by about 20% compared to the Nevada plant. Panasonic also plans to introduce battery cells with advanced materials that will raise capacity by roughly 5%, further strengthening the domestic EV supply chain.
Beyond its manufacturing ambitions, the Kansas factory is also a major economic driver. The facility is set to create up to 4,000 direct jobs and an estimated 8,000 jobs overall. Panasonic Energy is also partnering with educational institutions to foster long-term collaboration in battery innovation and talent development.
Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic Energy, expressed appreciation for the support from local and state partners. “Together, we are accelerating the shift to electrification, reinforcing regional supply chains, and nurturing the next generation of battery talent,” he stated. Learn more about this topic here.
Covering roughly 121 hectares, the Kansas factory is now producing 2170 cylindrical lithium-ion battery cells at scale. Once fully operational, the site is expected to achieve an annual production capacity of 32 GWh, contributing to Panasonic's goal of boosting its total U.S. output to approximately 73 GWh.
This new facility features next-generation labor-saving production lines, projected to increase productivity by about 20% compared to the Nevada plant. Panasonic also plans to introduce battery cells with advanced materials that will raise capacity by roughly 5%, further strengthening the domestic EV supply chain.
Beyond its manufacturing ambitions, the Kansas factory is also a major economic driver. The facility is set to create up to 4,000 direct jobs and an estimated 8,000 jobs overall. Panasonic Energy is also partnering with educational institutions to foster long-term collaboration in battery innovation and talent development.
Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic Energy, expressed appreciation for the support from local and state partners. “Together, we are accelerating the shift to electrification, reinforcing regional supply chains, and nurturing the next generation of battery talent,” he stated. Learn more about this topic here.
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