🌬️The Greats

Bell Labs researcher credited with identifying the p–n junction effect that made modern silicon solar cells possible.

“Investigate anomalous measurements; an imperfection may be the mechanism.”

Designed the Gedser turbine, whose three-bladed, stall-regulated architecture influenced the modern wind turbine.

“Reliability over years is more persuasive than a spectacular first run.”

An energy analyst who popularized efficiency and distributed energy as strategic alternatives to centralized fuel supply.

“The cheapest generated kilowatt-hour is often the one never needed.”

Developed early lithium-ion battery chemistry, a prerequisite for portable electronics and grid storage.

“Energy density without safe materials is not a finished technology.”

Built a practical rechargeable lithium-ion battery using safer carbon anodes, enabling later storage industries.

“A practical system often comes from making a brilliant chemistry manufacturable.”

As executive director of the International Energy Agency, he has shaped the global data and scenarios used by energy planners.

“Infrastructure decisions improve when scenarios make assumptions visible.”

A physicist and ARPA-E director who funded high-risk energy technologies and linked research to deployment challenges.

“Fund the difficult bridge between a device and a deployable system.”