UNSW has played an outsized role in the development of crystalline-silicon solar technology and the modern solar industry. Through its leadership of the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP), it continues to help shape the future of solar innovation.
ACAP brings together leading Australian solar research programs, works across the entire solar value chain, and collaborates closely with major global manufacturers – including industry giants in China.
In this episode, UNSW researcher and ACAP Executive Director Professor Renate Egan joins host Jonathan Gifford to share the latest developments in solar research and discuss how technology will continue driving the PV industry in 2026.
About The smarter E Podcast
The smarter E podcast is all about the current trends and developments in a renewable, decentralized and digital energy industry. Our host welcomes and interviews personalities who shape our industry and drive developments forward. A new episode is published bi-weekly on Thursdays.
Professor Renate Egan is Executive Director for the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics. She is also Deputy Head of School (Engagement) in the School of Solar PV and Renewable Energy Engineering. Renate joined UNSW in 2014 after a 20-year career in industry. She is the Co-Founder of Solar Analytics, Australia's largest independent distributed energy monitoring provider. Previously, she was Director and CTO of CSG Solar AG and Managing Director of Suntech R&D Australia Pty Ltd.
