Solar Steps Up and Shines On – Part 2: the Solar Industry Perspective

We tend to think of solar as a monolithic commodity when in reality it comes in many forms to suit diverse needs, each developing and succeeding at different rates. We think of the current administration as having dealt the solar industry a debilitating blow when in fact, solar power is growing at an unprecedented rate worldwide. To make sense of what is happening in solar from an industry perspective, Gil Jones, PV Applications Engineer with Qcells, a leading worldwide developer and supplier of Solar PV, shares the dynamically shaping applications of solar technology.

This presentation was recorded and can be viewed by clicking on the red Play button below.

Solar has deep strong roots in the United States, but the research, development, technology, manufacturing, application and deployment are truly international and proliferating at a dizzying rate in use of materials, light capturing, electrical conversion means, and design optimization. Politics has more recently become a major factor in what gets manufactured where and how. The solar industry is constantly adjusting and adapting as more and more of our energy is generated by Solar Photovoltaics (PV).

Qcells is a representative example of a solar supplier today. Originating in Germany’s Solar Valley in 1999 to serve that well-sponsored nascent market, Qcells developed ground-breaking technology before getting caught in the 2008 recession. In 2012, the Korean chemical conglomerate, Hanwha, with its own solar program, acquired Qcells, consolidating both into a worldwide business. Qcells has continued to be a world leading innovator and performance-leading supplier, gradually developing and expanding cell and panel technologies as well as systems integration into its product line. In 2019, Qcells inaugurated the largest solar module production facility (1.7 GW/year) in the western hemisphere in Dalton, Georgia. Qcells has since expanded to a total of 8.1 GW/year with additional facilities in Dalton and a new facility in Cartersville, Georgia, including new solar cell lines.

In his presentation, Gil explores the technologies and components that make up solar panels and how they are driven by different needs in utility-based, commercial & industrial, and residential markets and applications. From his diverse background in solar applications, Gil sorts out how solar can and will impact your life and life on the planet.

Gil Jones

Gil Jones is Sr. PV Solutions Engineer with Qcells North America, the largest producer of solar panels in the US market and world’s sixth largest producer of solar panels. Qcells supplies and integrates utility, commercial, and residential solar and storage technologies. Gil started his solar career as an apprentice to Pennsylvania solar pioneer and longtime MAREA leader, Bill Hennessy, principal of Berks Solar. Gil has experience in residential and building-integrated solar design, commercial rooftop solar racking, solar applications, and new-product introduction and marketing. Gil is based in the California Bay Area where he supports product management and utility sales.