U.S. International Trade Commission Starts Investigation on TOPCon Solar Products
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The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has started an official investigation. This investigation is about certain TOPCon solar cells, modules, panels, and their components. It is important because it checks if companies are breaking the law by selling these products in the U.S.
The investigation started because of a complaint by First Solar, Inc., a company based in Phoenix, Arizona. They believe their U.S. Patent No. 9,130,074, called the ‘074 patent, is being used without permission. This patent is about making solar cells. First Solar thinks other companies are using it illegally.
First Solar filed this complaint on February 24, 2026. They added more information to the complaint on March 10, 2026.
The Commission is trying to find out if there is a violation of the law. They want to know if companies are bringing these solar products to the U.S. without permission.
If the investigation finds problems, they might stop companies from bringing these products into the country. The Commission might also stop them from selling these products in the U.S.
Several companies are part of the investigation. These companies are from many countries, including the U.S., Germany, Canada, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, India, Jordan, Korea, and Japan.
Some companies on the list are AXITEC, Canadian Solar, JA Solar, JinkoSolar, Mundra Solar, Philadelphia Solar, Hanwha Q CELLS, Runergy, Trina Solar, T1 Energy, Vietnam Sunergy, and Toyo. Each has different addresses and places where they operate.
The USITC will tell these companies about the investigation. These companies must respond to the complaint and the investigation notice within 20 days. If they don’t respond, they might lose their chance to defend themselves. This could mean they will not be able to sell their products in the U.S.
The Chief Administrative Law Judge will appoint someone to oversee the investigation. The appointed judge will look at all the evidence. They will listen to what everyone has to say and make a decision about the public interest.
The investigation is a serious matter. Companies need to respect U.S. laws. They must ensure that they are not using patented technology without permission. The Commission’s decision will help protect inventors and their inventions.
The Commission keeps public documents on its electronic docket at https://edis.usitc.gov. People with hearing or mobility issues can contact the USITC for assistance.
In conclusion, the USITC’s investigation is crucial. It ensures fair trade and protects intellectual property in the solar energy industry.
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