Canadian Solar Inc. (CSIQ) shares plummeted by over 10% on Monday morning after U.S. solar panel maker First Solar (FSLR) announced that it has sent letters to several major solar companies, including Canadian Solar, claiming infringement on its patents related to a leading solar technology.
In a conference call with analysts on Tuesday, First Solar executives revealed that they have notified Canadian Solar, JA Solar, Longi, Jinko Solar, and Trina Solar through their attorneys, alleging that these companies are infringing on First Solar's patents. The specific patents in question were not disclosed, but they are believed to be related to First Solar's advanced thin-film solar panel technology.
While the details of First Solar's claims are yet to be made public, the news has sent shockwaves through the solar industry. Canadian Solar, one of the world's largest solar panel manufacturers, saw its stock price plummet by 10.83% to $XX.XX as of 9:46 AM ET on Monday. The company has not yet responded to First Solar's allegations.