Peter F. Varadi

1926 - 2022

VARADI

PETER F. VARADI (Age 95) 1926 - 2022

Peter F Varadi, entrepreneur and celebrated pioneer in the field of solar energy, died June 23, 2022 in his home in Chevy Chase.

Dr. Varadi co-founded Solarex Corporation in Rockville, MD, the world's first solar energy company focused on terrestrial applications. By the early 1980s, Solarex was the largest terrestrial solar panel manufacturer in the world, with more than 600 employees, factories on four continents, and operations worldwide. After the sale of Solarex to Amoco (now BP) in 1983, Dr. Varadi continued his lifelong service to the global photovoltaic industry as a consultant on projects with the European Commission, World Bank, U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, among other organizations. His published works include Meteoric Rise of the Solar Industry: Sun Above the Horizon, Sun Towards High Noon, and Solar Power Transforming our Energy Future. In 2004, Dr. Varadi was awarded the John Bonda prize by the European Photovoltaic Industry Association in recognition of his lifelong service to the global photovoltaic industry.

Dr. Varadi was born in Szeged, Hungary. He received his doctorate in physical chemistry at the University of Szeged and began his career under the communist regime in Hungary. After a daring escape to the West with his family, he continued his scientific career in the United States first in the manufacture of high-powered vacuum tubes and then as head of the chemistry laboratory for the Communications Satellite Corporation in Clarksburg, MD. This position provided him early entry into solar technology, leading to the founding of Solarex.

He is survived by his loving partner of 40 years, Helene Ramo of Chevy Chase, his daughter, Eva Varadi, son-in-law Thomas Bornstein, grandchildren Sara Bornstein and Samuel Bornstein, of Juneau, Alaska. Private family services are planned.