P-type panels are the most common type available for purchase. They are more cost competitive than N-type panels and they have held the largest extent of the market for the last 40 years.
Disadvantages of P-type panels include the boron-oxygen defect. When the cells are formed, a significant concentration of dissolved oxygen presents and forms a recombination area with the boron (under light exposure). This event is called ‘light induced degradation’ and it reduces the efficiency of the cell.
P-type cells are also more prone to metallic impurities such as interstitial iron, these impurities can lower the lifetime of the cell.
N-type cells have many advantages, they are resistant to light induced degradation due to the presence of phosphorus instead of boron within the silicon. This immunity leads to a longer carrier lifetime of the cell and a more efficient, powerful system.
N-type cells are also less prone to metallic impurities that affect P-type cells and have a higher temperature tolerance.
The main disadvantage of N-type panels would be cost. Since N-types come with longer carrier-life and higher efficiency, they are expensive to purchase. Many premium panel brands such as LG Solar, SunPower, and Jinko offer N-type panels for much higher price than P-type.
