Since 2005, SolarWorld has been awarding the SolarWorld Einstein-Award to individuals of outstanding merit who have contributed in a special way to the use of solar energy. The award was born from the explanation of the photoelectric effect by Albert Einstein who laid the foundation for understanding PV solar energy. This year’s award goes to Dr. Rupert Neudeck, the founder of “Cap Anamour” and the head of the aid organization “Grünhelme” (green helmets).
This is the fifth time in a row that the award has been given to personalities who have rendered great services in the area of solar PV technology. The award ceremony took place on the night of the 21st September in Hamburg on the occasion of the EU PVSEC.
Neudeck showed that solar power makes possible sustainable development in rural areas with a vocational school in Ruanda operated exclusively on solar power. Instead of the prize money the “Grünhelme” organization will receive a solar power plant for a social station on the Mauritanian coast, which will train solar technicians.
“It is always individuals who start towards new horizons and who move things forward. But it takes many to turn an idea into a worldwide movement. In his many years of dedication and commitment Dr. Rupert Neudeck has triggered such a movement”, said the Chairman and CEO Frank H. Asbeck during the award ceremony in the former main customs office in the Port of Hamburg.
