LONGi Unveils Dual World Records at SNEC 2025, Redefining Photovoltaic Efficiency Standards

At the highly anticipated SNEC 18th (2025) International Photovoltaic Power Generation and Smart Energy Conference & Exhibition, LONGi made headlines by announcing two industry-defining technological breakthroughs during the Technology Innovation Session.

Certified by the authoritative U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), LONGi’s self-developed large-area (260.9 cm²) crystalline silicon-perovskite two-terminal tandem solar cell achieved a remarkable 33% conversion efficiency—setting a new global record for large-area tandem cells. Simultaneously, its back-contact (BC) module reached an efficiency of over 26%, once again elevating the performance ceiling for crystalline silicon modules. Both milestones were recognized in the latest Solar Cell Efficiency Tables (Version 66), affirming China’s continued leadership in photovoltaic innovation.

Global Records Reshaping the PV Industry

LONGi’s 33% efficiency tandem cell—realized through advanced material engineering and structural optimization—represents a nearly 20% performance gain over conventional single-junction silicon solar cells. Crucially, this is the first time such efficiency has been achieved at a size suitable for scalable production, marking a critical step toward lowering photovoltaic energy costs globally.

Meanwhile, the 26% efficiency achieved in LONGi’s BC modules demonstrates the company’s deep technical maturity in this field, edging crystalline silicon module performance closer to the 27% frontier.

As a long-standing innovation leader in the PV sector, LONGi has consistently driven the industry forward—transitioning the mainstream from polysilicon to monocrystalline technologies and now advancing next-generation solutions like perovskite and BC cells. The company’s comprehensive R&D ecosystem spans materials, equipment, and manufacturing processes.

“LONGi’s innovation DNA is rooted in a deep respect for scientific fundamentals,” said Li Zhenguo, Founder of LONGi, President of its Central R&D Institute, and recently appointed Chief Technology Officer. “We’re not just focused on internal breakthroughs—we actively champion collaborative innovation across the industry.”

25th Anniversary Vision: Innovation + Collaboration

Marking its 25th anniversary, LONGi introduced a new dual-engine strategy of “Innovation + Collaboration”, emphasizing intensified research in frontier areas—such as BC, perovskite, and hydrogen energy—while building a globally connected innovation ecosystem.

Li Zhenguo addressed the audience at LONGi’s booth at SNEC 2025, stating:

“The photovoltaic era has arrived. Yet challenges remain in storage, transmission, and grid integration. Only through collaborative innovation can clean energy fully empower the world.”

He added:

“Whether it’s advancing single-junction silicon or pioneering tandem technologies, LONGi maintains an open approach to diverse innovation paths. These dual records are not only milestones but reflect our unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of PV efficiency. Our mission is to make solar the cornerstone of the global energy system.”

Cross-Sector Synergy: PV + Transportation

A notable highlight at the event was LONGi’s collaboration with Belgium’s Innoputs Solar Team on their solar-powered race car, “Infinite Apollo”. Outfitted with LONGi’s state-of-the-art BC solar cells and flexible encapsulation, the vehicle will compete in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (BWSC). This partnership exemplifies the growing potential of “PV + Transportation”, where solar technology extends its reach beyond the energy sector.

In Shanghai, LONGi sent a clear message to the world: Chinese PV companies are reshaping the global energy landscape through relentless innovation.

“Over the past 25 years, solar has become the world’s most cost-effective energy source,” Li concluded. “Looking ahead, our goal is to embed green energy into every aspect of life. These new records are not just achievements—they are catalysts for a global energy transformation.”