Global solar giant LONGi recently launched its EcoLife series, the world’s first commercially available photovoltaic solar module based on heterojunction back contact (HBC) technology, at the Intersolar Europe trade fair in Munich.
The EcoLife module achieves a record cell efficiency of 27.3% and module efficiency of up to 25%, marking a significant milestone in commercial solar technology. The first model released is a 54-cell bifacial premium module aimed at the residential rooftop segment, with a maximum output of 510W and a power density of 250W/m².
The HBC Solar Technology
The HBC platform merges heterojunction (HJT) passivation with back contact (BC) light absorption, enabling full-surface passivation and eliminating metal recombination loss. The design supports an open-circuit voltage above 750 mV, a notable advancement in solar cell performance.
Compared to mainstream modules, the EcoLife product delivers up to 40W higher output and allows for up to 9% more capacity per rooftop, according to the company.
The module boasts an ultra-low temperature coefficient of -0.24%/°C, with just 1% first-year degradation and a 0.35% annual degradation rate thereafter. It is certified to withstand snow loads of up to 6000 Pa, hurricane winds up to 3600 Pa, and is rated Class A for fire safety.
10μm-thicker TaiRay Wafer
LONGi also highlighted mechanical advancements, including its TaiRay wafer, which is 10μm thicker than standard, boosting rupture resistance by 16%. A new anti-shading design lowers local temperatures by 28% under partial shading, reducing hot spot formation and fire risk, the company said.
Two variants of the EcoLife module are now available: LR7-54HJBB: a full-black, bifacial 54-cell module with 505W output and 24.7% efficiency, targeting aesthetics-conscious homeowners. LR7-54HJD: a transparent bifacial 54-cell module offering 510W output and 25% efficiency, focused on performance and safety.
Both modules come with a 30-year warranty for power output and materials. They are optimized for low-light performance, making them suitable for shaded or space-limited residential installations. LONGi said the EcoLife launch signals a shift toward a more consumer-focused, agile approach in its residential solar offerings.
