In this episode, Sean White had a fun chat with Don Bilinski, the Enterprise Business Development Manager at Kinect Solar. They recount a serendipitous meeting at a solar conference and delve into the fascinating history of solar modules. Don shares anecdotes about industry pioneer Russ Campbell, who significantly contributed to the development of early solar modules, right down to the quirky design of junction boxes inspired by a Dodge Dart gas cap. They also discuss the evolution of solar technology from its infancy at Bell Labs to the large-scale utility projects of today, highlighting milestones and challenges in the journey. Don reveals an exciting upcoming unboxing of vintage Arco solar modules, stored for nearly 40 years. This episode is a treasure trove of solar history, technological evolution, and engaging stories from industry veterans.
Topics Covered:
Arco Solar Modules
Bell Labs
Silicon coating
Plexiglass
Russ Campbell
Crystalline Silicon Solar Module 1954
Solar World
Lauren Carson
Johnny Carson
Solar Universe
IPPs = Independent Power Producer
EPCs =
Coda Energy
Utility Scale
JBox M51
Dodge Dart gas cap
Paul Fenn
Community Choice Aggregation
Fidelity Roof Company
Schüco Solar
Women in Solar
Reach out to Don Bilinski
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/don-bilinski-ab288158/
Website: www.kinectsolar.com/
Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean’s classes at
www.heatspring.com/sean
www.solarsean.com/pva