BillionaireNet
Renxian
Cao Renxian
Rank #176
CHINAEnergyPhotovoltaic equipment

Cao Renxian

Net Worth
$14.68B
-4.76% (24h)
Cao Renxian is the chairman and CEO of Sungrow Power Supply, a leading global provider of renewable energy solutions. Born in Hangzhou, China, Cao's journey began with humble roots. He earned degrees in industrial automation from Hefei University of Technology before founding Sungrow in 1997. Under his leadership, Sungrow has become a global leader in the renewable energy sector, manufacturing solar inverters, energy storage systems, and other power conversion equipment. As of December 2025, Cao Renxian has a net worth of $16.5 billion, and is ranked #569 on Forbes' 2025 Billionaires list. Cao's focus on technological innovation and commitment to sustainability has propelled Sungrow's success, making him a prominent figure in the global clean energy transition.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Cao Renxian's early life was marked by challenges, growing up in an impoverished rural family in Hangzhou, China. Despite these hardships, he was driven by a strong determination to succeed and a passion for education. He pursued his bachelor's and master's degrees in industrial automation at the Hefei University of Technology.

Rise to Success

In 1997, at the age of 30, Cao founded Sungrow while he was still teaching at his alma mater. He recognized the vast potential of renewable energy solutions, leading him to establish Sungrow, a company dedicated to creating renewable energy products such as solar photovoltaic (PV) inverters, wind power converters, and energy storage systems. Sungrow's inception marked the beginning of Cao's relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to advancing green energy technologies. Sungrow has grown into a global leader in the renewable energy sector, manufacturing solar inverters and energy storage systems.

Key Business Strategies

Cao Renxian's leadership has been characterized by several key strategies. He has consistently prioritized investment in research and development (R&D) to ensure that Sungrow remains at the forefront of technological advancements. His focus on innovation has led to a wide range of products, from advanced inverters that optimize solar power generation to energy storage solutions that enhance the reliability of renewable energy systems. Cao emphasizes technological innovation and improving quality and efficiency. Sungrow has also focused on expanding its market share in key regions and building a strong customer base.

Philanthropy

Information on Cao Renxian's specific philanthropic initiatives is limited in the search results. However, Sungrow has played a significant role in targeted poverty alleviation via photovoltaics.

Career Timeline

2011

Sungrow listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange

Sungrow Power Supply Co Ltd was listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

1997

Founded Sungrow Power Supply

Cao Renxian founded Sungrow while working as a lecturer at Hefei University of Technology.

Philanthropic Impact

Poverty AlleviationUnknown

Poverty Alleviation via Photovoltaics

Sungrow has played a significant role in Targeted Poverty Alleviation via photovoltaics.

Wealth Trajectory