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Patent Dispute Threatens Waaree’s $30,000 Crore Solar Export Orders

First Solar, the US-based solar giant, has accused India’s Waaree Energies of infringing its patents related to TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact) solar cell technology. The American company has asked Waaree to either stop manufacturing these cells or obtain a license, warning of legal action otherwise. The dispute could impact Waaree’s exports to the US, which account for nearly 60% of its 25 GW pending orders worth about Rs30,000 crore.

Indian solar exports to the US surged after tariffs were imposed on Chinese solar cells, exempting Indian supplies. At 24-25 cents per watt, Waaree earns a 40% premium on exports compared to domestic sales, making the US a crucial market. Waaree currently operates 4 GW annual TOPCon and 1.2 GW Mono PERC capacity at its Gujarat facility.

First Solar has previously taken similar legal actions, including a lawsuit against JinkoSolar, and its notices have extended to other companies like Adani Group, which has challenged the claims in a Delaware court. Experts believe patent disputes in solar technologies such as TOPCon, HJT, and perovskite cells will intensify as competition rises, forcing manufacturers into cross-licensing and stronger IP strategies.