Gao Peng, chief technology officer at Hanergy Holding Group, used to be an industrial designer 10 years ago before he showed a strong interest into the solar industry.

"With the development of solar technology we can do a lot of things," Gao said, adding his interest had made him a successful professional in the solar industry.

To inspire more young people to be engaged in the industry, the company has launched the "thin film solar product global innovation competition" in several categories including construction and transportation products, home and outdoors, and solar powered vehicles.

Winners will receive prize money ranging of up to 1 million RMB (161,352 U.S dollars), and be offered sponsorship, large-scale production support, profit-sharing and employment opportunities.

"I want all of these students to have a passion for a solar dream," Gao said, addressing an audience of students, researchers and professionals at the Milan Polytechnic, whose design department is the Italian partner of the contest.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Hanergy is a high-tech energy company confident that thin film -- second generation solar cells made by depositing one or more thin layers of photovoltaic material on a substrate such as glass, plastic or metal -- will determine the future of energy.