SharedSolar develops and deploys smart microgrids that combine renewable energy, metering, and storage management to deliver reliable, grid-like electricity in off-grid communities. Its pay-as-you-go model lets customers prepay in flexible amounts while real-time data helps operators manage demand and gives users visibility into their energy use. The Columbia Sustainable Engineering Lab project has carried out field work in places including Uganda and Mali.
DGridEnergy, LLCFormed in 2016, Washington, D.C.-based DGridEnergy manufactures off-grid solar-powered walk-in refrigeration systems for temperature-sensitive products in emerging markets. Its modular Solar Cool Cube is designed to expand as storage needs grow, helping farmers, food distributors and health providers maintain cold storage where reliable grid power is unavailable. The company also provides installation, training, remote monitoring and technical support, with deployments ranging from farms in Maryland to agricultural operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania.POTOMAC, MD
Crawford Solar PowerCrawford Solar Power develops sculptural solar trees with integrated battery storage and links them into EDEN, a distributed network designed to generate local power and support electric-vehicle charging. Its concept combines renewable-energy infrastructure with community uses such as vehicle rentals and driving schools, and the company is seeking founder-donors to launch an automated solar tree factory.CORONA, NY
YansaFounded in 2009, Yansa develops community-controlled wind farms, providing the technology, capital, training and management needed to bring locally governed renewable energy projects to life. Its pilot project partners with the Zapotec community of Ixtepec in Oaxaca, Mexico, where wind-farm revenues are directed toward priorities chosen by residents while the community retains control of its land and resources. The Yansa Group combines a nonprofit foundation focused on community welfare with a technical arm that plans projects and secures financing.NEW YORK, NY
SunboltBorn from the power outages of Hurricane Sandy, Sunbolt designs and assembles off-grid solar workstations and charging furniture for outdoor spaces. The company’s original ConnecTable charging station found an early home across the University of California system, with more than 30 installations before the product was renamed Sunbolt in 2018. Today, its U.S.-assembled units serve campuses, parks, trails and public spaces across 33 states and several international markets.HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA