Suntech Power Holdings’ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Zhengrong Shi, received the 2009 World Technology Award for Energy from the World Technology Network (WTN) on 16 July. WTN’s goal is to create an international think tank to examine the implications and applications of emerging energy technologies and has semi-annual awards for the leaders in fields ranging from the arts to space.
James P. Clark, Chairman of the WTN, cited Dr. Shi’s “outstanding achievements in the field of photovoltaics” and “leadership in the world’s quest for energy sustainability” as the rationale behind their decision. Clark continued as saying “we believe that his work both as a scientist and an entrepreneur will produce long-lasting environmental benefits for generations to come.”
Dr. Shi is the founder of Suntech and served as a researcher and director in prior positions. Additionally, he holds 11 patents in PV technologies and has published a number of related works. He remarked that he is “very pleased to receive this prestigious distinction from the World Technology Network. It has been a privilege to contribute to the transition of solar technology from the lab to commercial reality.” He looks forward to the “further evolution of solar technology [as it becomes] a critical element of the global energy generation.”