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