Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems

The Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ISE) conducts research on the technology needed to supply energy efficiently and on an environmentally sound basis in industrialised, threshold and developing countries. To this purpose, the Institute develops systems, components, materials and processes in the areas of the thermal use of solar energy, solar building, solar cells, electrical power supplies, chemical energy conversion, energy storage and the rational use of energy.

With a staff of approximately 880, Fraunhofer ISE is the largest solar energy research institute in Europe. The Institute's work ranges from fundamental scientific research relating to solar energy applications, through the development of production technology and prototypes, to the construction of demonstration systems. The Institute plans, advises and provides know-how and technical facilities as services.

• Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems (ise.fraunhofer.de)

Massachusetts Clean Energy Center

The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (CEC) aims to support and encourage the emergence of a "green economy" in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through a variety of initiatives. To date, it has issued US$4 million in grants to develop job training programs for emerging greentech fields. In addition, it manages the state's Renewable Energy Trust. 

• Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (www.masscec.com)

National Grid

Formed in 1990, National Grid is one of the world's largest utility corporations. Its initiative in pursuing companywide energy efficiency and greenhouse reduction programs have proven that even traditional power companies can meet the energy challenge head-on, and sets an important example to the rest of the industry. As an inaugural sponsor of the Fraunhofer CSE, National Grid has committed to helping the Center's establishment and further research in future.

• National Grid (www.nationalgrid.com)

Fraunhofer Institute of Building Physics

The Fraunhofer Institute of Building Physics (IBP) deals with research, development, testing, demonstration and consulting in the fields of building physics. This includes noise control, sound insulation measures in buildings, optimization of audibility conditions in audiences, energy saving measures, lighting technology, questions of indoor climate as well as aspects of moisture and weathering protection, the preservation of building structures and of historical monuments.

The Institute co-operates with partners from all sectors of industry in the development and introduction on the market of new and sustainable building materials, components and systems. Contractual partners are enterprises engaged in the fields of civil engineering, mechanical and plant engineering, building contractors and architects, planning and licensing authorities as well as those who commission public and private building research.

• Fraunhofer Institute of Building Physics (www.ibp.fraunhofer.de)

  
  

Weil, Gotshal and Manges LLP

With 20 offices worldwide and over 1,300 lawyers, Weil Gotshal is both one of the world's largest and most prestigious law firms. Its major practice areas include international arbitration, capital markets, finance, mergers and acquisitions, bankruptcy, and intellectual property. In June 2008, Weil Gotshal formally joined the CSE's network of sponsors, providing experienced legal counsel in the areas of contract law and intellectual property. This sponsorship represents the firm's first foray into the burgeoning field of renewable energy.

• Weil Gotshal (www.weil.com)