First Solar has announced it has initiated an investigation of several crystalline-silicon (c-Si) cell manufacturers for potential infringement of patents it gained through its acquisition of TetraSun.
The move follows the US company announcing its ownership of patents related to the manufacturing of tunnel oxide passivated contact and c-Si PV cells.
The patents affected include those issued in the US, Canada, Mexico, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, and Australia, among other jurisdictions, with validities extending to 2030.
It also includes pending applications in the European Union and Japan.
“First Solar firmly believes in the value and strength of the patents and plans to conduct a thorough investigation of potentially infringing products,” said the US technology player.
First Solar acquired TetraSun and its intellectual property portfolio in 2013. Prior to its acquisition, the California-based startup had pioneered proprietary cell architecture and manufacturing processes for large-format crystalline silicon wafers.
“These patents are First Solar’s intellectual property, which we continue to leverage as part of ongoing efforts to develop the next generation of PV technologies,” said executive vice president, general counsel and secretary of First Solar Jason Dymbort.
He added: “While First Solar is a world leader in the development and commercialisation of advanced thin film photovoltaics, our R&D and intellectual property portfolio spans several semiconductor platforms, including crystalline silicon, as we pursue multiple pathways towards our goal of developing the next transformative, disruptive solar technology.
“We are investigating several leading crystalline silicon solar manufacturers for potential infringement of our patents.
“If infringement is discovered, we intend to challenge the ability of potential infringers to legally manufacture, assemble, and sell infringing TOPCon technology by pursuing enforcement, licensing, and/or other measures to safeguard our rights.”