The Life of the Solar Pioneer Karl Wolfgang Böer

Book excerpt: In 1973, Dr. Ber created the Solar One house, the first house to convert sunlight into electricity and heat. His leadership made a lasting impact on science, engineering, and the solar industry. The Life of the Solar Pioneer Karl Wolfgang Ber describes the life of one of the most influential and recognized solar energy pioneers. It is a must read for anyone interested in the modern development of solar energy, Bers dynamic life as one of the key movers in the field, and his world authority in CdS (Cadmium sulfide). It provides rare insight into the personal life of a scientist growing up in turbulent postwar Berlin. After his emigration to the USA and his transformation as a leader in solar energy, he set the direction for the future in significant ways: Bridged the divide between academia and industry Wrote over 350 science publications, dozens of books, and patents Created the most successful international solid state physics journal Promoted worldwide implementation of solar energy