Blog
January 7, 2026
Solar Maverick Podcast: Jing Tian on Smarter Solar, MLPE, AI, and Energy Intelligence
Tigo Energy’s Chief Growth & Revenue Officer Jing Tian recently joined Benoy Thanjan on the Solar Maverick Podcast to discuss how the solar industry is evolving into a future defined by smarter solutions, software-driven performance insights, and Energy Intelligence.
In the episode, Jing shares her journey from earning a PhD in chemistry to becoming a global solar executive, with leadership roles across both Asia and the U.S. She also offers a clear perspective on why the next era of solar growth will depend on technologies that make systems safer, more adaptable, and easier to manage at scale.
Why module-level tools matter in the field
Jing explains how module-level power electronics (MLPE) have become increasingly important across residential, C&I, and utility-scale installations - helping improve system flexibility, safety, and overall performance.
Small improvements can create massive impact at scale
A recurring theme is how seemingly modest performance gains at the module-level can translate into significant financial and operational value when deployed across multiple sites.
AI-powered monitoring is reshaping O&M
Jing also discusses how the industry is shifting toward predictive analytics. AI-driven insights detect performance issues early, reduce truck rolls, and make operations more efficient while improving reliability over the long term.
Rapid shutdown and safety requirements remain critical
With safety standards continuing to evolve, the conversation touches on how rapid shutdown requirements are influencing system design and why smarter solutions are playing a growing role in meeting these needs without adding complexity.
If you’re interested in where solar is headed, this is a great discussion with practical insights for today’s installers and industry leaders.
