Page 66 - ISES SWC50

Emmanuel Fabre
Country: France
Year joined industry: 1969
Company first worked for: Philips Subsidiary RTC (Radiotechnique-
Comeplec)
Technology area: PV
Still active in the industry: No

Dr Emmanuel Fabre joined the research department of the Philips subsidiary Radiotechnique-Compelec (RTC) in
1969. He spent a year at the Philips laboratories in the USA (New Your State). From 1973-74 most of his time was
spent on PV research liaising with then solar cell production plant in Caen, France. In 1981 the Philips RTC solar
business was merged into Photowatt and Dr Fabre became the Scientific Director of Photowatt. He was one of the
founding directors of EPIA and served as president twice. When Photowatt was acquired by Chronar he stayed and
was appointed chairman. In 1998 when Photowatt was bought back then he became Executive Director of Chronar
France . When Chronar corporation collapsed NAPS acquires Chronar France and Dr Fabre became managing
director the role he maintained until he retired in 2007.

Roger Little
Country: United States Year joined industry: 1969
Company first worked for: Spire Corporation
Technology area: PV
Still active in the industry:

Roger Little founded Spire Corporation in 1969 and served as the Company’s Chairman, Chief Executive Officer
and President until Dec 2013. Spire corporation initially manufactured solar cells for space and then terrestrially
however it moved into the business of the manufacturer and supplier of the equipment required for manufacturing
of solar cells and modules and the associated testing equipment . The company offered turnkey project solutions
to support the solar module manufacturers in establishing their manufacturing facilities. Roger was the face of
Spire and was personally active in promoting the company at shows etc. He was also active on many committees
related to PV and serving as president of the US Solar Energy Industry Association in the early 1990’s. After retiring
continued to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company.

48 | ISES SWC50 - The Century of Solar-Stories and Visions