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Behind solar power’s meteoric rise is a little-known Australian

The rise of solar power shows no sign of slowing down, with the International Energy Agency predicting it will overtake coal as the world’s biggest source of electricity next year. Behind its success is a little-known Australian inventor.

Published on the 13 March 2026
Martin Green from the University of New South Wales in Sydney

On a crisp, sunny morning overlooking the beachfront at Bronte, in Sydney, a smartly dressed man strolls along the pavement.

The glorious winter weather has brought out a crowd as he navigates the bustling footpath.

He has to step between surfers carrying boards, mums pushing prams and any number of other passers-by.

His kindly bearing draws smiles and acknowledgements, which are returned in kind.
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