First Solar's 2025 Sales Boost and Legal Action Against JinkoSolar

First Solar, Inc. (Nasdaq: FSLR) has announced an increased sales forecast for 2025, ranging from $5.3 billion to $5.8 billion, and has initiated legal action against JinkoSolar for alleged infringement of its Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) technology patents. These developments highlight the company's strategic focus and commitment to protecting its intellectual property rights.



First Solar's increased sales forecast for 2025 reflects the company's strong performance and growth prospects. The company's CEO, Mark Widmar, attributed this growth to the company's selective approach to bookings, expanded manufacturing capacity, and progress in research and development. This growth is expected to be driven by increased module sales and a higher volume of modules sold to third parties.



First Solar's legal action against JinkoSolar underscores the company's commitment to defending its intellectual property rights. The lawsuit, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, alleges infringement of First Solar's US Patent No. 9,130,074, which covers methods of manufacturing TOPCon crystalline silicon photovoltaic solar cells. First Solar obtained these patents through its 2013 acquisition of TetraSun, Inc., and holds issued patents in multiple jurisdictions, with validities extending to 2030 and beyond.



The lawsuit against JinkoSolar follows First Solar's July 2024 announcement of infringement investigations against several leading crystalline silicon solar cell manufacturers. First Solar believes it has valid and enforceable patents related to TOPCon technology, which could generate licensing revenue and create market disruption for its crystalline silicon competitors.

First Solar's strategic moves, including its increased sales forecast and legal action against JinkoSolar, align with its long-term business strategy. By leveraging its TOPCon technology patents, despite not directly commercializing the technology, First Solar can extract value from its intellectual property, disrupt the market, and future-proof its business. However, this approach also presents risks, such as potential legal challenges and market uncertainty.

In conclusion, First Solar's increased sales forecast for 2025 and its legal action against JinkoSolar demonstrate the company's strategic focus and commitment to protecting its intellectual property rights. These moves align with the company's long-term business strategy, but also present risks and opportunities that investors should consider. As the solar manufacturing industry continues to evolve, First Solar's strategic decisions will play a crucial role in shaping its competitive position and financial performance.