A major patent clash has arisen between First Solar, which is America’s largest solar panel maker, and Waaree Energies, India’s top solar exporter. First Solar has sent a warning letter to Waaree, accusing the company of violating two of its patents in the production of TOPCon solar cells, a technology that is currently the most popular and efficient in the market.
The US-based firm has demanded that Waaree either stop manufacturing these cells or license the technology from them. If Waaree does not comply, First Solar has threatened legal action. Waaree, however, has pushed back, saying it does not need to follow First Solar’s warning.
This dispute comes at a critical time, as Waaree’s solar exports, worth nearly ₹30,000 crore, mostly to the US, are booming. Exports make up about three-fifths of Waaree’s 25 GW pending orders. Indian solar exports to the US have surged since former US President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Chinese solar cells, which gave Indian manufacturers an edge.
First Solar has previously taken legal action against other companies, including Shanghai-based JinkoSolar, for similar patent issues. Analysts suggest that the company is protecting its global market position as competition in solar manufacturing heats up worldwide.
TOPCon, which stands for Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact, is widely regarded as the most efficient solar cell technology available today. Waaree currently has 4 GW per year of TOPCon capacity and 1.2 GW of PERC capacity at its Gujarat plant.
Experts believe that advanced solar technologies like TOPCon, HJT, and perovskite cells are popular in the market. So, more patent fights, tough negotiations, and stronger intellectual property (IP) rules are expected in the solar industry.
Right now, Waaree is in a tough phase because its solar exports are growing, but the company also faces the risk of legal action from First Solar.
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