Solar technology innovator Professor Andrew Blakers has been honoured with the Order of Australia (AO) for his groundbreaking contributions to sustainable energy. His co-invention of the PERC solar cell technology has helped revolutionise the global transition to clean energy.

“Solar and wind energy deployment is now outpacing fossil fuels and nuclear power by five times, driven by superior economics,” says Blakers, who has dedicated over four decades to advancing solar technology. “At current rates, renewable energy sources will overtake conventional power generation by 2032, offering a clear path to addressing climate change through affordable, clean energy.”

Beyond his pivotal PERC innovation, Blakers has expanded the horizons of renewable energy through his work on Sliver solar cells and development of a comprehensive pumped hydro storage atlas. As the former Node Director of the Australian Centre for Advanced Photovoltaics and current Emeritus Professor at ANU’s College of Engineering, his research continues to shape the future of sustainable power.

The technology he helped develop has evolved from powering remote satellites to becoming a cornerstone of the global renewable energy revolution, demonstrating how innovative engineering can create lasting environmental solutions. Now serving as a member of the Institute for Climate, Energy and Disaster Solutions, Blakers remains committed to advancing the clean energy transition.