First Solar sues JinkoSolar over alleged TOPCon patent breach

Arizona-based First Solar has recently filed a lawsuite against JinkoSolar in the US District Court for the District of Delaware. The legal action centers on the First Solar’s US Patent No. 9,130,074 covering manufacturing methods for TOPCon crystalline PV cells has been infringed by JinkoSolar. According to First Solar, it has acquired the patent portfolio in 2013 through its purchase of TetraSun. According to First Solar, it holds patents in regions including the US, EU, and China, with validity extending beyond 2030. First Solar has launched investigations into crystalline silicon manufacturers starting July 2024, with JinkoSolar emerging as a key concern. First Solar stated that JinkoSolar’s response to prior discussions was unproductive, prompting legal action.