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Australia’s ‘solar godfather’: Vietnam leads Southeast Asia’s clean energy transition
Nurturing the energy revolution
Renowned as the “godfather of solar,” Prof. Martin Green has spent over five decades advancing solar energy technologies. In 2023, Prof. Green’s revolutionary development of Passivated Emitter and Rear Contact (PERC) technology, now used in over 90% of solar panels worldwide, earned him the VinFuture Grand Prize. Through the VinFuture Prize, Prof. Green has also had a unique perspective on Vietnam’s progress toward global sustainability, as he continues to become a member of the VinFuture Prize Council.
“One of the most immediate outcomes was the opportunity to establish new collaborations in Vietnam. I have gained much greater insight into the progress being made in Vietnam’s clean energy sector than I knew before,” he shared.
Prof. Green also expressed deep appreciation for the VinFuture Prize, noting that winning such a significant award had undoubtedly enhanced his research group’s ability to attract the necessary resources to develop new ideas.
Earlier this year, his pioneering work was honored with a clean-energy ferry named after him in Australia. While he felt “fortunate to be selected,” Prof. Green emphasized that this recognition propelled him toward a broader movement for a global solar energy revolution.
“We need to move faster,” he urged, pointing to the stark evidence already unfolding in Australia, including massive bushfires followed by widespread flooding that falls well outside the norm. “It is a bit of a sign of what lies in the future. We’re beginning to feel the initial effects of climate change, which will only intensify unless we take urgent action,” Prof. Green warned.
The “godfather of solar” also shared that the path forward hinges on international collaboration and government leadership. The global exchange of knowledge and talent has allowed innovations from his lab to influence commercial solar production in China, which in turn benefits countries like Australia that import these cost-effective solar technologies.
Much of that progress, Prof. Green added, has been made possible by falling prices driven by technologies like PERC, as well as support from international organizations such as the United Nations (UN). One of the UN’s key Sustainable Development Goals is to ensure universal access to energy by 2030 and solar offers the most viable path to get there.
Pushing solar frontiers
In recent years, Prof. Martin Green and his team have continuously challenged the boundaries of what photovoltaic technology can achieve. One of the most compelling directions in his current research revisits a landmark theoretical paper he wrote about 40 years ago, regarding the limits on the energy conversion efficiency of silicon cells.
“At the time, most people believed that the efficiency limits lay just over 20% energy conversion efficiency. However, in my paper, I calculated the theoretical limit to be between 29% and 30%, significantly higher than what was commonly accepted,” he said, suggesting that 25% efficiency was a feasible target.
This insight became a key motivation for his team to explore greater efficiency gains. They set a practical goal of 25% efficiency, which they ultimately reached around the turn of the century. Today, many commercial solar cells already operate at this level of efficiency, getting closer to the 29-30% limit he proposed years ago.
The second area of focus involves stacking cells made from different materials on top of each other to capture more energy from sunlight. Sunlight can be regarded as a stream of particles called photons. Silicon cells respond to photons of all colors in sunlight, from blue to red and even to the lower-energy infrared ones that our eyes can’t see. However, blue photons contain much more energy than needed, and in standard silicon cells, that excess energy is wasted.
This is the key reasons behind the limits on the energy conversion efficiency of silicon cells.
One material showing strong potential in lab settings is a special kind of perovskite, made with heavy elements like lead and iodine. Still, there is no guarantee that perovskites will meet the stability standards required for widespread commercial use, which is why researchers are also investigating alternative materials. Though these alternatives don’t currently match perovskites in performance, they may offer better long-term reliability.
These approaches, aiming to increase efficiency, have opened a door for the large-scale deployment of the solar revolution.
According to Prof. Green, it has been a key driver in the dramatic cost reductions in photovoltaics over the past few decades. “If we can transition to one of these stacked tandem cells, like perovskite on silicon, it could revolutionize not only performance but also system-wide cost dynamics. Not so much in the cost of making the cell, but by leveraging those efficiency gains to reduce the broader costs of solar deployment,” he emphasized.
Bringing down the cost of cell production will be a key to expanding the interest in using them. According to the International Energy Agency, solar power delivers some of the cheapest electricity in history.
“The exciting thing is that the cost of solar is still coming down despite the massive decreases we have seen over the last 15 years. It continues to fall week by week,” he said. “We witnessed the agricultural revolution and then the industrial revolution. Now, many believe we are entering an energy revolution, where it becomes so affordable and accessible that new applications open up.”
However, one of the biggest near-term challenges is finding a cell that can be used in these stacks. Silicon is an ideal material for photovoltaics as it is abundant, non-toxic, and stable. What’s missing is a complementary material that matches these qualities while offering additional performance benefits.
In this search, artificial intelligence can provide a much wider scanning of possibilities than traditional methods permit. The whole material system will be canvassed, and perhaps some new materials will be identified.
The potential of Vietnam
As the global race to renewable energy and net-zero emissions accelerates, Vietnam is not standing on the sidelines. In terms of photovoltaics, he cited the data suggesting that over 10% of Vietnam’s electricity has been generated from solar in recent years.
As the adoption scales up, the uptake needs to match the electricity network’s ability to absorb solar power. This requires parallel investment in battery storage systems and other stabilizing technologies, and Prof. Green believed Vietnam is progressing well on this front.
“So I think Vietnam would be one of Southeast Asia’s leaders in terms of photovoltaics,” he remarked, “Vietnam is probably already leading Southeast Asia in the clean energy transition.”
In Southeast Asia, where two-wheeled vehicles dominate urban transportation, the shift toward electric scooters is also crucial. Drawing parallels with China, where the replacement of fossil-fueled bikes with electric versions has reduced pollution and CO₂ emissions, he believed that Southeast Asian nations could see similar environmental benefits by following this path.
On this front, Prof. Green was impressed by VinFast’s electric vehicles when visiting Vietnam in 2023.
“The quality of the cars seemed like genuinely competitive products. I also like the electric buses that VinBus has developed in Vietnam,” he stated. “In this context, Vingroup seems to be leading the way in developing vehicles that can meet this potential demand,” he noted.
The VinFuture Prize has also enabled Prof. Green to build valuable connections with experts in clean technology and beyond. “I shared the 2023 VinFuture Grand Prize with Prof. Rachid Yazami, Prof. Akira Yoshino and Prof. Stanley Whittingham, whose pioneering work is in lithium-ion batteries. Meeting those people and getting to understand their contributions better has been really important to me as well“, he said.
Reflecting on the diversity of fields represented, he noted:”The VinFuture Prize is not limited to clean energy; it is designed to honor innovations with global impact across a wide range of disciplines.”
Hashtag: #VinFuture
https://vinfutureprize.org/vinfuture-prize-nomination/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
VinFuture
The VinFuture Foundation, established on International Human Solidarity Day on December 20th, 2020, is a non-profit organization co-founded by billionaire Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong and his wife, Madam Pham Thu Huong. The Foundation’s core activity is awarding the annual VinFuture Prize, which recognizes transformative scientific and technological innovations capable of making significant positive changes in the lives of millions of people worldwide.
The VinFuture Prize is now accepting nominations for the 2026 VinFuture Prize. Submit your nominations here: https://vinfutureprize.org/vinfuture-prize-nomination/. Outstanding nominators will be honored through the VinFuture Nominator Recognition Program.
The VinFuture Prize consists of four prestigious awards presented each year. The most esteemed is the VinFuture Grand Prize, valued at US$3 million, making it one of the largest annual prizes globally. Additionally, there are three Special Prizes, each valued at US$500,000, specifically dedicated to honoring Women Innovators, Innovators from Developing Countries, and Innovators with Outstanding Achievements in Emerging Fields.
The Reality of the Raya Rush
The lead-up to Raya is a whirlwind of grocery runs, deep cleaning, and late nights in the kitchen. By the time the first open house begins, most women have already put in an incredible amount of effort for their families. The quiet moments in between are not just a break. They are earned.
XIXILI’s pajamas are made for those moments. Easy to move in, soft enough to wear through the night, and the kind of pieces that make coming home feel like something to look forward to. Designed to fit a wide range of body types, every woman can find something that feels as good as it looks.
“Raya is everything. The food, the family, the laughter. And at the end of it all, she deserves to rest just as well as she celebrated,” says Tara Tan, Marketing Director at XIXILI.
Comfort That Carries Through the Season
Raya may bring the occasion, but the shift happening in Malaysian wardrobes goes further than that. Women are increasingly treating sleepwear as a considered part of their self-care, not just something to change into before bed.
“We often talk about the joy of gathering, but we rarely talk about the exhaustion that comes with it,” Tara Tan adds. “Our goal for Raya 2026 is to ensure that when the last guest leaves, every woman has a high-quality piece of loungewear to retreat into. It is about honouring the work she does by giving her the rest she deserves.”
Quality loungewear for the wind-down, the slow morning, and every quiet moment in between has become one of the most considered purchases a woman makes this season.
Made to Be Worn, Not Just Owned
Good sleepwear should not sit tucked away at the back of a drawer. It should be the first thing she reaches for at the end of a long day, worn in and looked forward to. XIXILI’s range is built for exactly that, styles that settle naturally into her routine and carry her well beyond the festive season.
The full sleepwear collection is available online and at XIXILI boutiques nationwide. To shop the range, visit www.xixili-intimates.com.Hashtag: #XIXILI
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About XIXILI
A homegrown Malaysian brand, XIXILI offers beautiful fashion lingerie and shapewear in Malaysia that prioritises fit and comfort. With an extensive range of bra sizes from A to I and bands 65 to 110cm, XIXILI caters to women of all shapes and sizes. Expert fitters are dedicated to helping each customer find the perfect bra, boosting confidence and enhancing silhouettes.
XIXILI became the first Malaysian lingerie brand to introduce a Try-On in 3D avatar tool, allowing customers to virtually try on XIXILI lingerie using a 3D avatar tailored to their specific body type and measurements. Whether for everyday wear or something special, XIXILI ensures women always look and feel amazing.
Specifically, in addition to the existing incentives currently available, customers who switch from old gasoline vehicles to new VinFast electric vehicles during the program period will receive an additional 3% discount for cars and 5% discount for scooters. The program will be applied across all four markets: Vietnam, India, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
In line with VinFast’s pioneering spirit, GSM Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company has also announced an immediate 10% reduction in fares for electric mobility services on the Xanh SM platform in Vietnam and Green SM in Indonesia from March 11 to March 31, 2026. This initiative offers customers a more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective transportation option.
The program may be extended depending on international developments and future fuel price movements.
Ms. Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Sales, VinFast, stated: “The special ‘Trade Gas for Electric’ program launched in March across four key markets is VinFast’s timely response to geopolitical volatility that is affecting socio-economic conditions in many countries around the world. As one of the pioneering manufacturers leading the global electric vehicle revolution, VinFast together with companies in Vingroup’s green ecosystem aims to help reduce the impact of fuel prices on people’s daily lives while also lowering environmental pollution through smarter, more sustainable, and more cost-efficient mobility solutions.”
The special “Trade Gas for Electric” program will be implemented in parallel with and combined with other available incentive programs in each market. Through layered incentives, Vingroup and companies within its ecosystem aim to create favorable conditions for customers to transition quickly to electric vehicles, reduce dependence on gasoline, stabilize daily life, and contribute to building a cleaner and more civilized living environment.
Hashtag: #Vingroup
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Media OutReach
Singapore University of Social Sciences Expands Regional Footprint in China with Launch of Success Academy in Chongqing
New Academy and Shenyang satellite office strengthen SUSS’ visibility and partnerships across Western and Northeast China.
CHONGQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 March 2026 – The Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) today launched the SUSS Success Academy in Chongqing in collaboration with Raffles Young Academy (RYA) Pte Ltd and announced the establishment of a satellite office in Shenyang. Building on its Success Academies in Beijing and Shenzhen, the Academy strengthens SUSS’ presence in China and supports its growing engagement across Western and Northeast China.
The launch was commemorated with an opening ceremony at the CCI Gallery, attended by close to 70 guests from China and Singapore, including representatives from institutions of higher learning, and industry and community partners. The ceremony was presided by Vice-Consul (Political) Ms. Mavis Tan, Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore, Chengdu and Mr. Li Xunfu, Deputy Director of Chongqing Municipal Commission of Commerce.
Success Academy to connect partners from Singapore and China
Anchored in SUSS’ commitment to lifelong learning and creating social impact, the Academy will serve as a key nexus for academic and industry partners from both countries. Through cross-cultural collaboration and practice-oriented learning, it also aims to develop future-ready talent equipped to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.
RYA is an education and talent development organisation aimed at nurturing future-ready talent through industry-oriented learning and international exposure. RYA will bring its networks and local expertise to support and enhance the Academy’s initiatives.
Through the Academy, SUSS will provide opportunities for students from SUSS and other Singapore pre-tertiary and tertiary institutions to co-learn and co-innovate with peers in China. These include interdisciplinary global learning courses, impact startup and venture builder programmes, industry-based immersions and student exchanges. SUSS students will also gain regional exposure through internships and other workplace learning opportunities. In addition, the Academy will support SUSS in working with universities and organisations in China to jointly design and deliver industry-relevant courses and programmes for students and executives.
Extending engagement into Northeast China with Shenyang satellite office
To further deepen its engagement in Northeast China, SUSS will launch a satellite office in Shenyang on 11 March 2026 under the Success Academy in Chongqing. This office will support SUSS’ initiatives in Liaoning Province and surrounding areas, including Dalian. In addition, three Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) will be signed with the following organisations:
- Shenyang University of Chemical Technology (SYUCT): Collaborative development of a Master’s degree programme in Social Work, fostering cross-border knowledge exchange, curriculum innovation, and talent development to address evolving social service needs.
- North-East Institute of Population and Social Development: Joint research endeavours, professional development programmes, and meaningful academia-industry partnerships to generate evidence-based solutions, build capabilities, and promote active ageing ecosystems that benefit individuals and communities.
Professor Tan Tai Yong, President of SUSS, said, “China is an important partner for SUSS as we expand opportunities for our students and strengthen collaboration across Asia. The launch of the Success Academy in Chongqing allows us to work more closely with universities, industry and community partners in Western and Northeast China, and to deliver applied, practice-oriented education that responds to real-world needs. Our partnership with Raffles Young Academy reflects our shared commitment to developing future-ready talent and supporting professional growth across the region.”
Mr. Samuel Ng, Executive Chairman, RYA, said, “Our collaboration with the Singapore University of Social Sciences reflects a shared belief in applied, practice-oriented education and in preparing students and enterprises to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Chongqing’s strategic position as a gateway to Western China and a hub for industry and connectivity makes it an ideal location for immersive, industry-linked education. This partnership represents a long-term commitment to building enduring bridges between students and industry, between academia and practice, and between Singapore and China.”
The launch of the Success Academy in Chongqing is part of SUSS’ broader expansion across Asia. Since 2023, SUSS has established Success Academies in Beijing, Shenzhen, Ho Chi Minh City Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Manila and Mumbai.
For more information, visit www.suss.edu.sg/success-academy.
Hashtag: #SUSS
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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