Celebrating Two Decades of Innovation: JinkoSolar at Intersolar Europe 2026
As JinkoSolar marks its 20th anniversary, the company stands at a pivotal moment in the photovoltaic industry, showcased at Intersolar Europe 2026. With a rich history of technological advancements, JinkoSolar is not only reflecting on its past but also gearing up for the challenges that lie ahead. The focus is shifting from merely achieving higher module power to enhancing efficiency, energy yield, and seamless integration with battery storage systems.
Transitioning to TOPCon Technology
A significant milestone in JinkoSolar’s journey has been its transition from PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology to N-type TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) technology. Alejandro Villegas, Senior Sales Manager for Spain, emphasized this shift as a major technological leap. The introduction of the Tiger Neo 3.0 modules has led to notable improvements in temperature behavior, reduced degradation, and enhanced performance under low irradiance conditions.
Villegas pointed out that these advancements translate into greater long-term energy production, moving beyond the traditional focus on higher nameplate power. This shift underscores JinkoSolar’s commitment to delivering not just powerful modules but also reliable long-term performance.
The Push for Higher Module Output
The photovoltaic industry is witnessing a rapid increase in module output, and JinkoSolar is at the forefront of this trend. The Tiger Neo product family has seen a remarkable power increase of approximately 25%, rising from 615 W to 670 W in recent years. At the recent SNEC 2026 in Shanghai, JinkoSolar unveiled the next generation of this platform, with future versions expected to approach an impressive 700 W.
Villegas highlighted the importance of adapting module formats to meet the diverse needs of various markets. In Southern European countries like Spain, Portugal, and Italy, JinkoSolar’s large-format 66-cell modules, currently available at up to 740 W, have gained strong market acceptance. The company is already working on further increases in output, demonstrating its commitment to innovation.
The Role of Battery Storage in Module Design
While the industry continues to chase higher wattage, Villegas believes that the next phase of module innovation will be closely tied to the rapid deployment of battery storage systems. He explained that the challenge has evolved; it’s no longer just about maximizing peak output. Future photovoltaic modules must evolve alongside energy storage solutions.
This evolution means that modules will need to deliver generation profiles that complement charging strategies, maximizing the value of stored solar energy while reducing the overall levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). Villegas emphasized the need for modules that not only generate energy efficiently but also allow for effective storage, ensuring that energy is available when it is most valuable.
A Shift in Focus: Beyond Modules
JinkoSolar’s vision extends beyond just manufacturing photovoltaic modules. The company has expanded its capabilities to include battery storage systems, aligning advancements in module performance with the growing role of storage in European energy markets. This integration is particularly relevant as batteries become increasingly common in utility-scale and commercial solar projects.
Villegas noted that this dual focus allows JinkoSolar to innovate in a way that enhances both generation and storage. The next phase of photovoltaic innovation will be characterized by the interaction between these two technologies, with module development aimed at producing energy more efficiently and consistently, thereby maximizing the overall value of solar assets.
The Future of Solar Energy
As JinkoSolar celebrates its 20-year journey, the company is poised to lead the way in the evolving landscape of solar energy. With a commitment to efficiency, performance, and integration with storage solutions, JinkoSolar is not just looking to the future of photovoltaic technology but is actively shaping it. The emphasis on stable long-term performance and flexible solar-plus-storage projects will define the next chapter in the company’s story and the broader photovoltaic industry.
