R uan Hongliang is the founder and chairman of Flat Glass Group, one of the world's largest manufacturers of photovoltaic (PV) glass used in solar panels. He started the business in 1998 in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, initially focusing on general glass products before strategically pivoting to the solar energy sector. Under his leadership, the company developed proprietary technology to produce ultra-clear, high-transmittance glass, becoming a critical supplier to major solar module makers globally.

The company is dual-listed on the Shanghai and Hong Kong stock exchanges, reflecting its significant market capitalization. Ruan manages the business as a family enterprise; his wife, Jiang Jinhua, serves as vice chairman, and his daughter, Ruan Zeyun, holds the position of president. His wealth is derived from his controlling stake in the company, which has benefited immensely from the global transition to renewable energy.