First Solar Inc. is one of the largest suppliers of solar PV modules in the world, and the largest supplier of thin-film PV, using cadmium telluride (CdTe) based technology. CdTe-based thin film technology is seen by many in industry as having the highest potential for manufacturing scale-up. In this report we identify that First Solar has a patent-based competitive advantage compared to its peers in the Solar PV industry. In a consolidating industry access to superior technology, scale, and strong IP can ensure continued and growing market share.  

This report looks at the patent and technology portfolio underpinning FirstSolar's position in the SolarPV market place, how its position compares to key peers in the industry, and how this affects the company's future strategic positioning. 

The report answers a number of key questions about First Solar competitive position in the Solar PV market, including:  

• Is First Solar's patent portfolio sufficiently strong in its key markets?
• Are First Solar's Chinese competitors only focused on polysilicon PV? How long will First Solar's current technology portfolio have patent protection?
• How does First Solar's patent portfolio reflect control over its technology value chain?
• What is First Solar's patent position in the event of a 'patent war' in the Solar PV space?

The report is built using CambridgeIP’s proprietary IP landscaping methodology, used by corporate and investor clients globally. This report is part of the Solar PV series by CambridgeIP. The report is 43 pages long and contains 23 tables and figures.