Last updated: 28 September 2026
High efficiency solar panels in Oman just got a clear signal of what is coming next. On 24 September 2026, Chinese manufacturer LONGi announced a 28.29% power conversion efficiency for its hybrid interdigitated back-contact (HIBC) silicon solar cell. Germany’s Institute for Solar Energy Research Hamelin (ISFH) verified the result. It is now the world record for single-junction crystalline silicon solar cells.
LONGi’s 28.29% Record: The Key Facts
This is LONGi’s third silicon cell record in 2026. The company first reached 28.04% in January, then 28.13% in April, and now 28.29%. According to LONGi, crystalline silicon cells have now reached 96.2% of their theoretical limit.
- Cell type: Hybrid interdigitated back contact (HIBC), single-junction silicon
- Efficiency: 28.29% (previous record 28.13%)
- Certified by: ISFH, Germany
- Wafer: Half-cut M10 wafer, the size used in mainstream modules
Key Fact: Most solar panels installed today convert about 20% to 22.5% of sunlight into electricity. Record cells show where commercial modules are heading next.
What Is a Back-Contact Solar Cell?
In a standard solar cell, thin metal lines run across the front surface. They collect current, but they also shade part of the cell. A back-contact solar cell moves all electrical contacts to the rear. As a result, the whole front surface can capture sunlight.
LONGi’s design also uses several advanced techniques. These include passivated tunnelling contacts, aluminium oxide and silicon nitride layers that reduce energy losses at the surface, edge passivation, and a laser step that lowers contact resistance. Together, they squeeze more power out of every square centimetre of silicon.
Why Solar Panel Efficiency Matters in Oman
Efficiency is not just a lab number. It decides how many kilowatt-peak (kWp) you can fit on a roof. In Oman, many villas, warehouses and factories have limited roof space. Higher efficiency means more electricity from the same area, which improves savings and shortens the payback period.
More Power From Limited Roof Space
Consider a 100 m² roof. With 21% efficient modules, it holds roughly 21 kWp. With 24% modules, the same roof holds about 24 kWp. That is around 14% more energy every year without any extra roof area.
Better Returns for Businesses
For a commercial solar system in Oman, extra output per square metre lowers the cost of each kWh produced over the system’s life. This matters most on factories and shopping centres where roof area, not budget, sets the size of the system.
Heat Still Matters
Omani summers regularly pass 45°C, and heat reduces the output of every solar panel. When you compare modules, check the temperature coefficient as well as the efficiency. Our guide on how solar panels perform in Omani heat explains what to look for.
Are High Efficiency Solar Panels Available in Oman?
Yes. Back-contact and n-type TOPCon modules are already sold in the GCC, and LONGi’s HIBC-based modules have been certified by the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at 26.4% module efficiency. The 28.29% record cell is a research result, but each record usually reaches commercial panels within a few years.
Local supply is also growing. Oman is building its own solar value chain in Sohar, from polysilicon to cells and modules. Read more about solar panel manufacturing in Oman.
How to Choose the Right Solar Panels for Your Project
The most efficient panel is not always the best choice. The right module depends on your roof size, budget and energy use. Before you buy, compare:
- Module efficiency and power rating (W)
- Temperature coefficient for hot desert conditions
- Degradation rate and warranty (product and performance)
- Cost per watt versus the value of extra roof output
- Certification and approval for grid connection in Oman
To see current costs, read our guide to solar panel price in Oman. For homes, start with our overview of residential solar systems in Oman. You can also compare the best solar companies in Muscat.
ملخص بالعربية: رقم قياسي جديد لكفاءة الخلايا الشمسية
حققت شركة LONGi كفاءة 28.29% لخلية شمسية من السيليكون أحادي الوصلة بتقنية التلامس الخلفي، وهو رقم قياسي عالمي موثّق من معهد ISFH الألماني. كفاءة أعلى تعني طاقة أكثر من كل متر مربع على الأسطح. تعرّف أكثر على الطاقة الشمسية في سلطنة عمان وأسعار ألواح الطاقة الشمسية في سلطنة عمان.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the world record for silicon solar cell efficiency?
As of September 2026, the record for a single-junction crystalline silicon solar cell is 28.29%. LONGi achieved it with a hybrid interdigitated back-contact (HIBC) cell, and Germany’s ISFH verified the result. It beat LONGi’s own previous record of 28.13%, set earlier in 2026.
What is the efficiency of solar panels sold in Oman?
Most modern modules installed in Oman have an efficiency of around 21% to 23%. Premium n-type TOPCon and back-contact panels can reach 24% or more. Real output also depends on heat, dust, tilt angle and system design, so professional sizing is important.
Are back-contact solar panels worth it?
Back-contact panels are worth considering when roof space is limited, because they produce more power per square metre. They also have a clean all-black front. They usually cost more per watt, so compare the extra energy against the higher price before you decide.
Will higher efficiency lower solar prices in Oman?
Over time, yes. Higher efficiency reduces the number of panels, mounting structures and installation work needed for each kilowatt. However, module prices also depend on global supply, tariffs and shipping, so savings reach buyers gradually.
Conclusion
LONGi’s 28.29% record shows that silicon solar technology is still improving fast. For homes and businesses, the practical result is more high efficiency solar panels in Oman and more power from every roof. AL DHAW Sustainability Energy designs systems around the best proven technology for local conditions. Contact AL DHAW for a solar consultation, or follow our renewable energy news for updates.
Sources: pv magazine (28.29% record); pv magazine (28.13% record and NREL module certification); The Energy Mix.
English 
العربية