An Inspired Conversation with Yi Li, Founder & CEO ...
An Inspired Conversation with Yi Li, Founder & CEO of Renogy
Savvy consumers are keen to understand the stories behind the brands they support. Renogy, based in Ontario, California, offers a compelling narrative of a young woman whose innovative vision has grown into a multi-national corporation. This March, in celebration of Women’s History Month and Renogy’s 10th anniversary, we caught up with Yi Li, the dynamic CEO and founder of the company.
In her third year of a Physics Doctorate program at Louisiana State University, Ms. Li, then in her mid-twenties, became enthralled by decentralized energy systems. She envisioned a world where localized renewable energy sources could replace long-distance high-voltage transportation infrastructure. Driven by the belief that everyone should have access to clean, cost-effective, and locally-produced energy, she committed to starting Renogy.
“You become very inspired when you first meet Yi and can’t help but be awed by her vision of the future. Renogy is not just a company, but a way to make a lasting impact on the world.” – Renogy Employee
With the concept of renewable energy and the trademarked name “Renergy” already taken, Yi knew from the start that innovation would be the hallmark of her company if it was to thrive in the burgeoning renewable energy industry. She settled on three key words: renewable, innovation, and energy—thus, “RENOGY” was born. According to Ms. Li, innovation involves investing in state-of-the-art facilities and manufacturing processes, as well as fostering talent. “With over 100 Research & Development Engineers, R&D is the key to our product design and quality,” she says.
Since its early days in 2010, Yi, a self-confessed “workaholic,” has navigated Renogy through challenging phases, including recent trade tariffs, achieving significant milestones. Today, Renogy sells in over eight countries, including Japan, Australia, the U.K., Germany, and the U.S., and boasts over 1 million consumers. Renogy’s commitment to quality stems from Yi’s belief that, “Every mistake can be learned from; even negative feedback is good.”
In a technical field predominantly occupied by men (with an estimated 20 to 1 ratio of men to women), Yi acknowledges that trust and respect “can always be earned, but as a woman, it just takes longer.” Despite these challenges, Renogy has grown remarkably in its first decade, suggesting a bright future for Yi and her company.
“She values all her employee’s input and is always open to new ideas that could benefit the company. She makes everyone feel very comfortable in and out of the workplace. During our annual Halloween party in 2018, she even dressed up in her Frog onesie and joined us in the costume contest and party activities.” – Renogy Employee
We had the opportunity to ask Yi a few questions about her company, upcoming products, and advice for young people entering this rapidly growing field.
Q: How are Renogy products different from those of other solar companies? What sets Renogy apart?
Yi: Three major things set Renogy apart: 1) Seamless connection between components for easy setup. 2) High-quality products supported by robust R&D and quality control. 3) We are a one-stop solutions provider and will soon offer an energy management system that allows consumers to access their energy data via Bluetooth and wifi.
Q: Why should the average family go solar? What strategies do you use to help people make an investment in solar?
Yi: Solar is clean and sustainable, and the cost is affordable. We start with small kits ranging from $200-$500 to educate consumers. Once they see how it works, many readily invest $20K for their entire house. We also offer 24-month financing for those who can’t afford the upfront cost.
Q: What are the biggest surprises and challenges you’ve faced with building the company?
Yi: The biggest surprise has been the rapid growth of the off-grid and hybrid markets, with Renogy experiencing over 50% growth year-over-year. The biggest challenge has been finding people who believe in the vision and building an organization that aims for the same goal.
“She has a vision for where she wants Renogy to be and when she wants to achieve those milestones. She has big goals and sets high bars for everyone here.” – Renogy Employee
Q: What changes have you seen or experienced in the industry in the past 3-5 years?
Yi: We’ve seen more real estate companies offering solar systems built into new houses, and consumers creating larger scale off-grid solutions. Solar is truly gaining momentum.
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Q: How have recent tariffs affected business?
Yi: Tariffs have increased costs by about 10%. To mitigate this, Renogy is diversifying its supply chain to lower the impact of tariffs and continue providing cost-effective solutions to consumers.
Q: What is on the solar industry horizon? What are you excited about regarding the future of solar?
Yi: Energy storage, with a focus on safety and efficiency, is the future of renewables. I foresee solar becoming a staple in every household, not just for the energy-conscious consumer.
Q: What products are coming out soon that you're really looking forward to?
Yi: Two major products: 1) Renogy’s 48V Off Grid Solution, which offers higher yet safer power stations, potentially shifting the market from 12V to 48V systems. 2) The DC Home Energy Management System, which will centralize all Renogy component data, providing consumers with a visual representation of their energy consumption for informed decision-making.
Q: In such a male-dominated field, what advice do you have for women entering similar technical fields?
Yi: Don't think of yourself with a female tag; we are equally intelligent. However, it’s alright to ask for help when physical strength is required.
Q: What fields of study would be most helpful to young people as they prepare for a career in this field?
Yi: Study fields related to Science, particularly Math and Physics, to develop logical thinking. Interning at a technology company helps understand business logic and underlying technology.
“As someone still in her 20’s, it feels overwhelming to think about achieving so much. But knowing that Yi started Renogy in her mid-twenties makes it seem more attainable and inspires me.” – Renogy Employee
Q: We’ve learned that Renogy supports local non-profit organizations. What areas are you particularly passionate about?
Yi: Poverty and sustainable living are very important to Renogy. We recently supported the Jack Ma Foundation and Clinton Foundation.
Being Solar Ambassadors for Renogy has been an honor, empowering people worldwide towards energy independence. Beyond promoting sustainable living and supporting significant causes, we’ve discovered Yi’s love for cooking hot and spicy Southeast Asian cuisine in her spare time. Don’t be surprised if you see Hamlet in your driveway next time we’re around, Yi! We’ll bring the chillis.
Interested in exploring solar-powered solutions? Visit our website for more details on All In One Solar Power System options.
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