Counterfeits of products from reputable brands are not uncommon, especially in the tech industry. In the solar industry, too, deceptively genuine-looking duplicates are repeatedly appearing on the market, increasing the pressure on European manufacturers in the already difficult solar market.
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Bauer Solar GmbH has become the next victim of counterfeiting of its modules. Several European customs authorities recently informed the German solar module manufacturer about duplicates in circulation for which the Bauer brand name had been fraudulently used. According to the authorities, a Chinese company had produced and shipped the counterfeits. During customs inspections, unregistered deliveries were confiscated by the authorities.
Taking legal action against the counterfeiters
According to initial information, this current case concerns Bauer 420 W glass-glass modules. Externally, there are subtle differences on the packaging layout that may not be apparent at first glance. The way in which the modules are secured during transport also differs from the original. As a rule, Bauer glass-glass modules are reinforced with wood at the bottom of each pallet. This wooden reinforcement is missing on the counterfeit modules.
As the German module manufacturer makes clear, the confiscated products were not manufactured by Bauer Solar, which is why they are definitely counterfeits. In contrast to original Bauer modules, the counterfeit modules have not undergone any quality controls by accredited testing bodies and therefore do not have any certifications (TÜV-Rheinland, IEC, Declaration of Conformity, etc.) that guarantee the safe use and durability of the products.
The counterfeits are not safe
As a result, not only counterfeiters but also potential buyers who purchase these products are liable to prosecution and are thus aiding and abetting counterfeiting and piracy - ignorance is no defence against prosecution. Due to the lack of quality checks, buyers of these duplicates expose their customers, the end consumers, to a considerable, actually life-threatening safety risk.
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Retailers and installers should exercise caution and are called upon to duly report counterfeit products to Bauer Solar GmbH. This also applies to cases where such modules are only offered for sale. Abnormally low prices should be seen as an alarm signal. Bauer Solar GmbH would be grateful for any information in this matter. (mfo)
