Maxeon Files Patent Action Against Tongwei Solar in Germany Over Shingled Solar Cell

Singapore-based Maxeon Solar Technologies Ltd., has recently filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Tongwei Solar (Hefei) Co., Ltd. and its subsidiary, Tongwei Solar GmbH, at the Dusseldorf District Court in Germany. The suit was filed by Maxeon’s German subsidiary.

The lawsuit alleges that Tongwei Solar has infringed upon Maxeon’s European Patent No. EP3522045 B1, which pertains to the innovative shingled solar cell module technology. This proprietary technology, utilized in Maxeon’s Performance Line of solar panels, has become a fundamental aspect of their design, manufacturing, and sales operations.

Maxeon’s CEO, Bill Mulligan stated, “Our shingled solar cell technology represents a significant investment and technological advancement. The Performance Line stands out in terms of efficiency, power output, and reliability compared to traditional panels.”

He further noted that Maxeon filed a lawsuit against Canadian Solar in Japan in September 2020, ultimately resolved through a settlement in April 2022.

Shingled Solar Cell Panels

Shingled solar cell panels are distinguished by their process of separating solar cells into smaller strips, which are then interconnected in an overlapping manner. This approach results in panels that exhibit higher power output, increased efficiency, improved reliability, and enhanced durability compared to conventional panels. The development of the Performance Line, along with its panel architecture and manufacturing processes, originated from the pioneering efforts of Cogenra Solar, a Silicon Valley-based startup.

Cogenra Solar was subsequently acquired by SunPower Corporation in 2015, and during the subsequent spinoff of Maxeon Solar Technologies, the intellectual property related to solar cell and module technologies, as well as the SunPower brand, remained with Maxeon, serving over 100 markets worldwide.

Maxeon’s dedication to innovation is safeguarded by an extensive patent portfolio, comprising over 120 granted patents and more than 80 pending patent applications. These intellectual property assets cover various global markets, including the United States, China, Belgium, France, Germany, Japan, and Australia.

The lawsuit is just one indicator of the race to protect marketshare and technology, that is set to become more intense as demand expands significantly all over the world.