Mole-Richardson invented the first Fresnel Solar Spot unit in 1935, adapting the fresnel lighthouse lens for use in motion pictures.

During World War II, Mole-Richardson company concentrated their efforts towards developing searchlights for battleships, tanks and artillery units to aid the Allied forces battle in Europe and the Pacific. In 1945 Peter Mole was invited to light the first United Nations conference held in San Francisco.

Mole-Richardson is considered by many to be the staple of motion picture and television lighting in the movie industry today, setting the standard for tungsten fresnel fixtures.