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Billionaire Profile
Z
Global Rank
#1530

Image: 鈴木博之 | CC BY 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Zhu Gongshan & family

CEO, Solar panel materials
CHINA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.697B
Estimated based on Solar panel materials stock value as of March 6, 2026
+2.69% (24h)
Age
68
Source
Solar panel materials
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
CHINA

Biography

Zhu Gongshan, born in 1958, is the founder and chairman of GCL Group, a leading global solar energy conglomerate. His career began in traditional power generation before he pioneered GCL's entry into the solar panel materials sector. Zhu's leadership has been instrumental in GCL's rise to become one of the world's largest polysilicon and silicon wafer manufacturers, significantly contributing to the renewable energy landscape. His net worth is estimated at 2.4 billion USD, reflecting his success in the solar industry. Zhu is also active in business groups, including the Global Green Energy Council and Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Zhu Gongshan was born in February 1958, in Donggou, Funing County, Jiangsu Province, China. He is a descendant of the old Red Army and grew up in a rural area. His early career involved various jobs before he entered the power industry.

Rise to Success

Zhu founded GCL Group in Hong Kong in 1990. He built over 20 power plants in ten years and became known as the “Private Power King.” In 2006, Zhu decided to enter the photovoltaic industry, focusing on the polysilicon raw material sector. He packaged power plant assets and took GCL-Poly to the Hong Kong Main Board in 2007. In 2011, he was the richest man in the new energy industry, and the company was listed on the Forbes Global 2000 List in May 2012.

Key Business Strategies

Zhu's key strategy involved a focus on material development and technological innovation. He emphasized the importance of providing high-quality, cost-effective materials. He invested heavily in research and development, with significant annual investments. Zhu also collaborated with state-owned enterprises, such as China Power Investment Corporation and China General Nuclear Power Corporation. He has been re-elected as Chairman of the Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association.

Philanthropy

Zhu Gongshan is the Founder and Honorary Chairman of GCL Sun Charity Foundation.

Career Milestones

1990

Founded GCL Group

Established GCL Group in Hong Kong, beginning his journey in the energy sector.

2006

Entered the Photovoltaic Industry

Ventured into the solar industry, focusing on polysilicon raw materials.

2007

GCL-Poly IPO

Took GCL-Poly public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

2011

Richest Man in New Energy Industry

Became the wealthiest individual in China's new energy sector.

2017-2019

President of Global Solar Council's second committee

Led the council from December 2017 to December 2019.

2022

Re-elected Chairman of the Asian Photovoltaic Industry Association

Continued his leadership role in promoting the PV industry in Asia.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environment

GCL Sun Charity Foundation

Undisclosed

Founder and Honorary Chairman.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"It's my greatest honor to be the President of GSC's second committee. I promise to leave no stone unturned to promote the global development of the PV industry."

Leadership Principles

Technological Innovation

Emphasizes continuous investment in technology as the primary driving force for new energy.

Collaboration

Works with state-owned enterprises and encourages cooperation within the industry.

Material Development

Focuses on providing high-quality, stable, and innovative materials.

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