Georgia Tech scientists played a critical role in the technology that led to a major investment in solar power in Georgia, and prompted a visit to the state from the Vice President.

Vice President Kamala Harris went to the Qcells facility in Dalton on Thursday. There, she announced the largest investment in solar energy in the country’s history.

Qcells is now the largest producer of solar panels in the western hemisphere.

As it turns out, Georgia Tech plays a key role in it all.