Billionaire Profile
Gao Jifan & family
Global Rank
#2073

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Gao Jifan & family

CEO, Solar equipment
CHINA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.019B
Estimated based on Solar equipment stock value as of April 20, 2026
-0.39% (24h)
Age
61
Source
Solar equipment
Industry
Energy
Citizenship
CHINA

Biography

Gao Jifan, a prominent figure in the solar energy sector, is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Trina Solar. Born in 1965, Gao holds a Master's degree in physical chemistry from Jilin University and a Bachelor's degree in chemistry from Nanjing University. His estimated net worth is $2.2 billion. Gao's wealth stems from his leadership of Trina Solar, a leading global provider of solar modules and smart energy solutions. Over his career, Gao has led Trina Solar to achieve numerous milestones, including becoming the first PV and energy storage company listed on the STAR Market. He is known for his focus on innovation, quality, and sustainability within the solar industry.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Gao Jifan was born on January 15, 1965. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Nanjing University in 1985 and a Master's degree in Physical Chemistry from Jilin University in 1988. Before founding Trina Solar, he gained experience managing two companies, including Wujin Xiehe Fine Chemical Factory and Guangdong Shunde Fuyou Detergent Plant.

Rise to Success

Inspired by the Kyoto Protocol and the U.S. Million Solar Roofs Initiative, Gao Jifan founded Trina Solar in December 1997. Under his leadership, Trina Solar has grown into a global leader in the photovoltaic industry. The company was the first PV and energy storage company listed on the STAR Market. Trina Solar's success is attributed to innovation, superior product quality, and vertical integration of production.

Key Business Strategies

Gao's business strategies have focused on innovation, research and development, and strategic partnerships. He has invested significantly in R&D, leading to significant breakthroughs in crystalline silicon cells and perovskite technologies. Trina Solar has also collaborated with leading universities and research institutes to advance photovoltaic research. The company's emphasis on quality has led to numerous awards and recognition. Gao has also focused on expanding manufacturing capacity. By the end of 2023, Trina Solar’s production capacity included 55GW for silicon wafers, 75GW for cells, and 95GW for modules.

Philanthropy

Specific philanthropy amounts for Gao Jifan could not be found in the search results. The company is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility.

Career Milestones

1997

Founded Trina Solar

Founded Trina Solar, which has become a global leader in solar PV modules and solutions.

2006

Trina Solar Listed on NYSE

Trina Solar listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

2020

Trina Solar Listed on SSE STAR Market

Trina Solar listed on the SSE STAR Market.

2022

Named one of Forbes China's Best CEOs

Gao Jifan was recognized as one of Forbes China's Best CEOs.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Corporate Social Responsibility

Not Specified

Undisclosed

Trina Solar is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. No specific philanthropy amounts were found.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“Benefiting Mankind with Solar Energy”"

Leadership Principles

Innovation-Driven Development

Emphasizing technological innovation and scientific research as core driving forces to maintain market leadership in the PV industry.

Customer-Centricity

Providing superior service and experience in its manufacturing operations.

Sustainable Development

Commitment to environmental protection and social responsibility.

Controversies & Challenges

2023

Exposure to Production in Xinjiang

A report stated that Trina Solar had very high exposure to production in Xinjiang, which involved forced Uyghur labor.

2023

U.S. Department of Commerce Ruling

The U.S. Department of Commerce ruled that Trina Solar circumvented tariffs on Chinese-made goods.