LONGi files lawsuit against Jinko Solar in United States for TOPCon patent infringement

LONGi, a Chinese solar module manufacturer, has initiated legal action against Jinko Solar in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, alleging patent infringement related to Jinko’s tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) technology and other photovoltaic modules. Known for enhancing energy yield and efficiency over traditional passivated emitter and rear cell (PERC) technology, TOPCon has gained momentum in the solar industry. LONGi is seeking a court order to prevent Jinko from selling the allegedly infringing products in the U.S. while also pursuing financial compensation for damages incurred.

The legal battle between LONGi and Jinko is part of a broader trend in the industry, with patent disputes becoming more common as companies vie to protect their intellectual property. Notably, the shift from Mono PERC technology to TOPCon has sparked numerous legal clashes, particularly in key markets like China, Europe, and the U.S. Reflecting this trend, Trina Solar previously filed a lawsuit against three U.S. subsidiaries of Canadian Solar over alleged violations of its TOPCon-related patents.

With a significant patent portfolio of 3,166 authorized patents as of June 2024, LONGi is well-positioned to defend its intellectual property rights, including those related to TOPCon technology. The company’s legal action against Jinko demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding its innovations and market position. Similarly, Jinko’s decision to counter with its own infringement lawsuit underscores the high stakes involved in protecting technological advancements in the solar industry.

Industry experts have highlighted the importance of intellectual property rights protection in light of the industry’s rapid technological advancements. As solar companies continue to innovate and develop new technologies to improve efficiency and performance, safeguarding these innovations through patents has become essential to maintaining a competitive edge in the market.

The lawsuit between LONGi and Jinko Solar serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges associated with intellectual property disputes in the solar sector. As technology continues to evolve and new innovations emerge, legal battles over patent infringement are likely to persist, shaping the competitive landscape of the industry. Against this backdrop, companies must remain vigilant in protecting their intellectual property while also fostering a spirit of innovation and collaboration to drive further advancements in solar technology.