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