Chinese Solar Billionaire Remains an Enigma After 47% Plunge

Sishen solar park in Kathu, South Africa.

Photographer: Waldo Swiegers/Bloomberg
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In the early stages of Hanergy Thin Film Power Group Ltd.’s tumultuous ride to the top of the global solar industry, Chairman Li Hejun spoke of changing the world with a vision imbued by magic.

Certainly, an air of mystery exists around his life story, not to mention the other-worldly 47 percent plunge in his company’s stock on May 20 and the absence of any explanation since. Known best as a solar operator and advocate, Li built his fortune by securing private ownership of hydroelectric assets, including a power station one-third larger than the Hoover Dam in the U.S.