TEMPE, Ariz. - First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: NASDAQ:FSLR), an American solar technology company, has announced it is investigating several crystalline silicon solar manufacturers for potential infringement of its patented Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) photovoltaic (PV) solar cell technology.
The company, which acquired the patents through its 2013 purchase of TetraSun, Inc., holds issued patents in multiple jurisdictions including the United States, Canada, Mexico, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, and Australia, with validity extending to 2030. Moreover, patent applications are pending in the European Union and Japan.
The patents in question stem from TetraSun's development of proprietary cell architecture and manufacturing processes for large-format crystalline silicon wafers. First Solar, primarily known for its advanced thin-film photovoltaic modules, has a broad R&D and intellectual property portfolio that includes several semiconductor platforms.
Jason Dymbort, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of First Solar, stated that the company is committed to leveraging its intellectual property and is actively exploring multiple pathways to develop transformative solar technology. Dymbort emphasized First Solar's readiness to enforce its patent rights, indicating that if infringement is detected, the company will consider enforcement, licensing, or other measures to protect its interests.
First Solar is recognized for its eco-efficient solar modules and is engaged in advancing the fight against climate change. The company's approach to technology emphasizes sustainability and responsibility throughout the lifecycle of its products, from sourcing and manufacturing to end-of-life module recycling.
The investigation into potential patent infringements underscores First Solar's intent to safeguard its technological innovations and maintain its competitive edge in the solar industry. The company has not disclosed the names of the manufacturers under investigation or the specific actions it may take if infringement is confirmed.
This development is based on a press release statement from First Solar, Inc. and reflects the company's current plans and intentions regarding its patent portfolio and potential intellectual property disputes.
In other recent news, First Solar, a leading American solar technology company, inaugurated the Jim Nolan Center for Solar Innovation in Ohio. This new facility, the largest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, is a significant addition to the United States' research and development capabilities for thin film photovoltaics. The company also plans to open a perovskite development line in Perrysburg in the second half of 2024.
In other developments, several firms including Roth/MKM, Susquehanna, Baird, and Deutsche Bank have maintained positive ratings on First Solar's stock, with various adjustments to their share price targets.
Roth/MKM and Susquehanna expect First Solar to benefit from strong average selling prices, while Baird has aligned its model with the company's average selling price and cost per watt guidance. Deutsche Bank increased the stock's price target based on estimated 2025 earnings per share.
The U.S. International Trade Commission initiated an investigation into solar panel imports from Southeast Asian countries, which could potentially impact the cost of solar panels in the U.S. market. First Solar's products have been registered under the EPEAT environmental rating system, aligning with the Biden administration's mandate to prioritize sustainable products.
These recent developments underscore First Solar's strategic positioning within the evolving landscape of the solar energy market.
InvestingPro Insights
As First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ: FSLR) continues to protect its technological advancements, the company's financial health and market performance provide a backdrop for understanding its capacity to enforce its intellectual property. With a robust market capitalization of 22.86 billion USD and a P/E ratio that stands at 21.95, First Solar shows a stable valuation in the market.
InvestingPro Tips highlight that First Solar not only holds more cash than debt on its balance sheet, which is indicative of financial stability, but analysts also anticipate sales growth in the current year. This expected growth is supported by a significant revenue growth of 27.28% over the last twelve months as of Q1 2023, which may reflect the company's ability to innovate and potentially expand its market share.
Moreover, First Solar's liquid assets exceed its short-term obligations, suggesting that the company is well-positioned to manage its current liabilities and invest in strategic initiatives, such as the enforcement of its patent rights. Despite recent price volatility, with the stock taking a hit over the last week and month, the company has experienced a strong return over the last three months and an impressive 46.37% price total return over the last six months.
For readers interested in a deeper financial analysis or seeking additional InvestingPro Tips for First Solar, you can find more information at https://www.investing.com/pro/FSLR. There are currently 10 additional tips available, which could provide further insights into First Solar's performance and outlook. Use the coupon code PRONEWS24 to get up to 10% off a yearly Pro and a yearly or biyearly Pro+ subscription, which includes access to comprehensive financial data and expert analysis to inform your investment decisions.
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