The USITC’s decision is based on a formal complaint filed by Hanwha Q Cells on March 4, 2019 in which the company alleged that JinkoSolar, Longi Solar, and REC Group are violating U.S. trade laws by unlawfully importing and selling solar cells and modules that infringe Hanwha Q Cells’ patented passivation technology. The complaint alleges that JinkoSolar, Longi Solar, and REC Group have unlawfully incorporated this patented passivation technology — which plays an important role in improving the efficiency and performance of solar cells — into the structure of certain of their solar cells.
In the USITC, Hanwha Q Cells seeks an exclusion order to halt the importation of infringing products and a permanent cease and desist order to stop the respondents from importing, marketing, and selling those products in the United States.
“We are pleased that the USITC has decided to initiate this investigation,” said Hee Cheul (Charles) Kim, Chief Executive Officer of Hanwha Q Cells & Advanced Materials Corp. “Ensuring strong protections for intellectual property signals to producers that it is worthwhile to undertake the R&D necessary to increase efficiency and lower the cost of solar energy. Ultimately, protecting our intellectual property rights will enable us to keep innovating and investing in our products, which in turn will contribute to the growth and development of the U.S. solar industry and market.”
Hanwha Q Cells recently opened a new 1.7-gigawatt solar module assembly plant in Dalton, Georgia. The facility is the largest of its kind in the western hemisphere and reflects Hanwha Q Cells’ long – term commitment to the United States and the important residential, commercial & industrial, and utility markets here. The capacity of this facility will enable Hanwha Q Cells to ensure a stable supply of advanced technology modules to the American marketplace.
For additional information on this matter, please visit www.q-cellsip.com
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