How Many Trademark Categories Exist for Photovoltaic Panels?

When protecting intellectual property in the solar energy sector, manufacturers often ask: "How many trademark categories apply to photovoltaic panels?" The answer lies in the Nice Classification system, which governs international trademark registration. Let's unpack this through the lens of recent industry developments and legal framework
Contact online >>

HOME / How Many Trademark Categories Exist for Photovoltaic Panels?

How Many Trademark Categories Exist for Photovoltaic Panels?

Understanding Trademark Classification for Solar Technology

When protecting intellectual property in the solar energy sector, manufacturers often ask: "How many trademark categories apply to photovoltaic panels?" The answer lies in the Nice Classification system, which governs international trademark registration. Let's unpack this through the lens of recent industry developments and legal frameworks.

The Core Four: Essential Trademark Classes

  • Class 9 (Scientific Instruments): Covers the photovoltaic cells themselves (product codes 090531, 090557) and related components like solar controllers
  • Class 6 (Metal Structures): Protects panel mounting systems using metallic components
  • Class 19 (Non-Metallic Structures): Applies to composite material-based panel frames
  • Class 37 (Installation Services): Safeguards proprietary installation methodologies

Picture this: A Chinese manufacturer recently faced legal battles because they only registered in Class 9, while competitors copied their aluminum mounting systems protected under Class 6. Comprehensive protection matters.

Beyond the Basics: Strategic Additions

Modern solar companies often expand protection to:

Ancillary Protection Layers

  • Class 35 (Advertising): For proprietary sales platforms like Tesla's solar roof configurator
  • Class 42 (Technical Services): Covers AI-driven performance monitoring software

Recent USPTO data shows 68% of solar trademarks now include Class 35 registrations, reflecting the industry's shift toward direct-to-consumer sales models.

Emerging Trends in Solar IP Protection

  • Bifacial panel mounting solutions requiring dual-class (6+19) registration
  • Solar skins (customizable panel surfaces) falling under Class 40 (Material Treatment)
  • Community solar programs necessitating Class 36 (Financial Services) protection

Consider the case of SunStyle's architectural solar tiles - their trademark strategy spans seven classes, demonstrating how premium products demand multi-layered IP protection.

Practical Considerations for Manufacturers

  • Prioritize Class 9 registration for core technology
  • Evaluate structural materials (Metal vs. Composite) for Class 6/19 decisions
  • Include Class 37 if offering installation services
  • Budget $2,500-$4,000 for initial multi-class filings

As solar panel designs evolve faster than trademark laws, proactive registration across multiple categories remains the best defense against copycat products. Remember - what's protected today might not cover tomorrow's floating solar farms or space-based arrays.

Visit our Blog to read more articles

Contact Us

We are deeply committed to excellence in all our endeavors.
Since we maintain control over our products, our customers can be assured of nothing but the best quality at all times.