Our Journey
From Bavarian Engineering to Global Solar Leadership
In an industry defined by rapid change, a company’s history is more than a timeline—it’s a testament to its resilience, foresight, and character. When you consider a partner for a significant capital investment like a solar module factory, you’re not just evaluating technology; you’re vetting the stability, experience, and long-term commitment of the people behind it.
Our story began in 1997, not in the solar industry, but in the heart of Bavarian engineering. Our journey taught us that true innovation is born from solving real-world problems and that the strongest partnerships are built on a foundation of trust.

The Spark of an Idea (1997)
J.v.G. technology GmbH was founded by Hans Thoma as a classic German engineering business, with an initial focus on applying precision engineering to complex industrial challenges. This grounding in mechanical and electrical systems instilled in us a discipline for creating solutions that are not just effective, but robust, reliable, and built to last—an engineer-led, problem-solving mindset that remains at our core today.
Pivoting with the Market: Entering Solar
(1998–2001)
As the world’s attention turned toward renewable energy with the signing of the Kyoto Protocol, we saw an opportunity to apply our engineering expertise to a new and vital challenge. In 1998, we made a deliberate pivot into the nascent solar industry. The global solar landscape at the time was fragmented, with just over 1,000 MW of installed capacity worldwide.
We recognized early on that entrepreneurs entering this market needed more than individual machines; they needed a complete, integrated system and an experienced partner to guide them. To meet this need, we launched our first turnkey production lines by 2001. While others sold components, we provided a comprehensive solution—from initial planning and factory layout to equipment installation, staff training, and operational support. This philosophy of customer proximity and complete system responsibility became our key differentiator.

Innovation Born from Necessity: The Genesis of DESERT Technology (2005–2020)
As our projects expanded into more demanding climates, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, we encountered challenges that standard solar technology could not overcome. Extreme heat, sand abrasion, and high UV radiation caused conventional modules to degrade rapidly. Instead of accepting these limitations, we committed to engineering a better solution.
Fifteen years of intensive research and development, backed by partnerships with the EU and the Fraunhofer Institute, culminated in our proprietary DESERT Technology. It was not a single invention, but a system of innovations designed for maximum durability and yield in the world’s harshest environments. Key breakthroughs include:

That journey—from identifying a problem to developing a world-class solution—is at the heart of what we do. We are engineers who build for reality, not for a laboratory.
From Bavaria to the World:
A Story of Global Growth
The success and proven reliability of our technology paved the way for international expansion. Our reputation for building robust, high-yield production lines made us a trusted partner for entrepreneurs and investors in emerging markets. From our home in Bavaria, we have deployed turnkey factories across the globe, proving our solutions are both scalable and adaptable to diverse economic and environmental contexts. This global track record is your assurance that our systems perform, no matter where your project is located.
The J.v.G. DNA:
What 25+ Years Have Taught Us
Today, J.v.G. is led by founder Hans Thoma and his two sons, Patrick and Andreas. As a family-owned business, we are guided by principles that stand apart in a market often driven by short-term trends. Our 25+ years of experience have reinforced three core beliefs:

Our Journey, Your Advantage
The value we offer today is built on our history. Every challenge we have overcome, every innovation we have developed, and every global project we have completed has enriched our expertise.
When you partner with J.v.G. technology, you are not just buying machines; you gain access to over a quarter-century of dedicated solar engineering experience. You are choosing a stable, family-led company committed to your success. Our journey has prepared us to be the ideal partner for yours.
Our history is the foundation for your future success. Let’s discuss how our experience can benefit your project. Contact us today to start the conversation.