Technical Advisor Panel (TAP)

The SolFocus Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) is chaired by world-renowned Nobel Laureate in Physics Dr. Arno Penzias, and one of the creators of the company’s enabling technologies: Dr. Roland Winston (University of California, Merced), inventor of non-imaging optics and a pioneer in solar. The panel provides both depth and independent thinking and analysis for the company’s technology and product development activities.

Dr. Arno Penzias, Chairman

Nobel Laureate Dr. Penzias has been a Venture Partner with New Enterprise Associates (NEA) since 1997. He was previously with Bell Labs where he headed its research organization and served as Chief Scientist. He is on the board of directors of Bloom Energy, Glacier Bay and Konarka and serves on a broad range of technical boards including Alien Technology, Hillcrest Communications, Heliovolt, Konarka, Luxtera, Motiong Telegent Systems, Teneros, Whole Security, and SolFocus. He has written two books and numerous articles on modern technology, especially its impact on business and society. His awards include a number of honorary degrees, as well as other awards for his contributions to science, R&D management and public service. Most notable of his awards was the 1978 Nobel Prize in Physics for his work in radio astronomy.

Dr. Roland Winston, Professor University of California, Merced

Dr. Winston is a pioneer in nonimaging optics, a science concerned with collecting, concentrating, transporting and distributing light energy in applications such as solar energy. He joined UC Merced in 2003 as a founding faculty member to create a world-class Renewable Energy Program at the University of California, Merced. Dr. Winston, a distinguished physicist and one of the country’s leading solar power experts, has received international recognition for his inventions and patents. He joined UC Merced from the University of Chicago where he taught and conducted research for 39 years. Dr. Winston is also considered a leading expert in thermal solar, and is conducting significant research into that field at this time.