Sponsors

We greatly acknowledge the organizations and individuals who make this trip possible. Below is an overview of the current Platinum, Gold and Silver contributors. If you or your organization would like to contribute to the Solar Journey as well, please visit the 'Donate' section of the website.

Platinum

First Solar - www.firstsolar.com

Founded in 1999, First Solar has become the world’s premier provider of fully integrated solar solutions, creating value-driven renewable energy projects that represent the leading edge of utility-scale solar technology and innovation. Having constructed and commissioned many of the world’s largest, state-of-the-art photovoltaic (PV) power plants in operation today, First Solar has established a portfolio of customers that include some of the world’s most sophisticated energy buyers. Our full service approach ensures the successful delivery of clean, affordable solar power—and spans the entire value chain, including module manufacturing; project development; engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC); financing; and operations and maintenance (O&M).

 

Global Environment Fund - www.globalenvironmentfund.com

The Global Environment Fund, established in 1990, makes private equity investments in companies that address growing global demands for cost-effective solutions to environmental and energy-related challenges. The invests in companies that provide products or services in the renewable energy, energy efficiency and environmental infrastructure industries. GEF’s companies meet growing commercial demand in key sectors of the core economy – such as energy generation, transportation and manufacturing – to be more clean and efficient.   

Gold

Earth Engineering Center (EEC)- www.seas.columbia.edu/earth/

The resource needs posed by the population increase and standards of living in the 20th century were met by enormous advances in technology. However, the cumulative impacts of the intensive use of the Earth's resources, and the attendant generation of wastes on climate and ecology, have emerged as a major concern and a threat to further development. It is now clear that the use of energy, water and materials is inextricably linked with the environment at local and global scales and that technological developments in the 21st century must address the needs of both "market" and "environment". This is the domain of Columbia's Earth Engineering Center (EEC).

 

Ascent Solar - www.ascentsolar.com

Ascent Solar is the leader in flexible energy. Our thin-film, flexible PV modules have the highest power density among other thin-film flexible technologies. Ascent is the only manufactur of thin-film CIGS modules on a plastic substrate, which provides unprecedented flexibility and lightweight advantages. Our technology easily integrates into a wide range of product applications, including roofing surfaces for buildings, portable electronic products, defense applications, space solutions, vehicles and more.
Countries around the world are under increased pressure and global mandates to lower their carbon dioxide emissions. Ascent Solar solutions meet the world's most stringent guidelines by delivering products that provide a clean, renewable source of energy.

 

Silver

Others

We've also received numerous donations from family, friends and other people. We really appreciate all of your help! One time, Rob met a Dutch-American couple during a transatlantic flight and they kindly sponsored us $50!