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Wednesday
26 Feb 2025

First Solar Files Topcon Patent Infringement Claim Against Jinkosolar

26 Feb 2025  by solarpowerworldonline   
First Solar, a thin-film solar panel manufacturer, has filed a patent infringement claim against JinkoSolar, citing its U.S. patent for a thin-film silicon solar cell technology. The patent, U.S. Patent No. 9,130,074, was acquired by First Solar in 2013 through its acquisition of TetraSun. The patent, which is valid until 2030, covers manufacturing methods for thin-film silicon solar cells, a technology that First Solar claims JinkoSolar has misappropriated.

First Solar, which specializes in thin-film solar panels, emphasizes that it has been actively defending its intellectual property rights. Jason Dymbort, Executive Vice President for General Counsel and Secretary at First Solar, stated that the company has received no positive response from other manufacturers in connection with its infringement investigations. “Given the responses we’ve received from other solar cell manufacturers, we believe our patent portfolio is strong and well-defined,” Dymbort said.

The case has sparked a wave of patent litigation in the solar panel manufacturing industry, with major players like First Solar, JinkoSolar, and others involved in disputes over thin-film silicon technology. The controversy highlights the growing importance of intellectual property protection in the sector, as manufacturers compete to ensure their technologies remain competitive.

First Solar is taking its legal action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware, aiming to stop JinkoSolar from manufacturing products that infringe on its intellectual property. The company has also hinted at more patent infringement cases pending, underscoring its commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in the industry.

This legal battle is a significant step in what could become a broader dispute over thin-film solar technology. As the industry continues to evolve, the stakes for intellectual property ownership and enforcement are likely to remain high. For now, First Solar stands ready to defend its rights against JinkoSolar and other manufacturers who may follow suit.

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