Mike Splinter, Applied Materials1

CE0
Santa Clara - CA United States

The big idea: In 25 words or less, please tell us how this Fast 50 Nominee is helping to address the planet's problems.

Applied Materials has successfully innovated new processes by which solar panels can be made four times larger, at lower price points and more efficiently.

Please describe how this nominee is using business as a force of positive change. What technology, idea, or strategy is the nominee using -- and what problem, such as global warming, poverty, or pollution, does it address? (suggested length: 100 words)

Applied Materials is changing the way the world is able to access energy. Through innovation of both its technology and business processes, it has been successful at lowering the cost per watt of solar energy, making solar panels and the innovation behind it applicable to businesses and customers around the world. Supporting and embracing cutting edge technologies as evidenced by its successful push into the solar market is also evident in its support of the annual Tech Awards program. Applied Materials is dedicated to supporting innovators who are creating solutions to benefit humanity. Its innovation surrounding solar technology is fast becoming a tangible answer to issues regarding climate change.

What are the results, both financial and social? How has the nominee's business performed, and what impact has it had on the problem it addresses? (suggested length: 100 words)

With the close of the industry’s largest ever solar panel EQUIPMENT contract in March 2008, $1.9 billion, a major change in the industry and its future was marked. Further, Applied Materials is currently in multiple conversations regarding gigawatt-scale solar projects which will reduce costs drastically to $1 per watt much sooner than previous projections. It is with momentum and innovation such as this that the future of technology and the industries it touches will forever be changed and improved. Finally, for the first fiscal quarter of 2008, Applied confirmed $260 million dollars for its environmental solutions group business, which includes the solar-panel-production equipment orders.

Comments that readers have made about this submission: